Distinguished lecture by women’s studies specialist Professor Noriko Mizuta

Prof Noriko Mizuta (水田宗子), Chancellor of Josai University Educational Corporation (學校法人城西大學理事長), delivered a lecture on the impact of aging societies on social, economic, and political aspects in the Multi-Media Conference Room on 9th April.  

The lecture was opened by Prof Houmin Yan, Dean of the College of Business, after warm greetings from Prof Way Kuo, President of CityU, Prof Arthur Ellis, Provost of CityU, Prof Horace Ip, Vice-President (Student Affairs) of CityU, and Prof Paul K S Lam, Chief-of-Staff.

The lecture topic was “The Yamambas’ Long Life: The Cultural Dynamics of the Aging Society”.  Referencing on Japan’s example as the first country in East Asia to tackle decreasing birth rate and aging population issues, Prof Mizuta discussed the changes on family structure, cultural and religious customs, and gender equality in Japan in the last decade. These changes posed an important guideline for the Japan government to devise policies and introduce laws to solve problems such as shortage of labour, inadequate health care professionals, and lack of caring service and facilities for elderly, as well as low productivity in local markets.  The study suggested a strong negative correlation between advanced technology and aging problems in developed countries; the more advanced the technology is, the lower the birth rate, which induces an aging population with emerging issues.

A majority of the aging population, with age over 100, in Japan are females.  They have a strong belief in achieving longevity and maintaining a healthy body and mind.  Prof Mizuta pointed out that the percentage would likely be doubled within 10 years and the Japan government would be facing a greater challenge. 

Yamamba is a symbol of old women living in their own styles, independently, without seeking the help of others in the society.  The legend of Yamambas became popular in Japan due to the rising threats of Japan’s aging society.  “This phenomenon also reflects the common view of public in Japan that men are not capable in taking care of themselves and others.  As a result, women are forced to build up a strong character and dominating role in the household.”  Prof Mizuta explained.  

“Despite the many policies and laws introduced by the Japan government that encourage women to participate in the labour force, the achievement is still very little because it is an instinct for women to sacrifice their careers fortheir families.”  She concluded.

The lecture was ended with Prof Way Kuo awarding Prof Mizuta as Honorary Professor of the Department of Management, College of Business.
  
About Josai University Educational Corporation

Josai University Educational Corporation was established in January 1965 and founded by Mr Mikio Mizuta, former finance minister of Japan, father of Prof Noriko Mizuta.  The Corporation operates two universities in Japan – Josai University and Josai International University.  It also established The Josai International Education Centre which mainly works with a number of overseas universities for student exchanges. 

For more information about the speaker and the Corporation, please visit http://www.josai.jp/en/