The Local Government Exchange & Cooperation Seminar

The Local Government Exchange and Cooperation Seminar Programme is a study tour that provides senior executives from government and peak organizations in the Oceania with the opportunity to meet with Japanese public officials, to study Japanese public administration first-hand, and to exchange ideas and expertise with local staff and fellow participants.
Over the course, participants attend lectures, take part in workshops, and visit local government offices, where they receive extensive exposure to the workings of Japanese government. An additional and equally important part of the program is the homestay with a local family, which immerses each visitor in the daily life and culture of Japan.

The Local Government Exchange and Cooperation Seminar Programme 2009
Shimane Prefecture hosted the exchange events for participants from CLAIR Sydney. Shimane Prefecture have implemented major projects for regional development involving climate, natural resources, senior involvement in regional activities, and some unique community organizations.

Theme
The theme for the seminar in Shimane Prefecture was ‘Regional Development Utilising Local Natural Resources’. It focused on the following policies and practices.
(1)Green Tourism
-Implementing activities at the community level leading to regional revitalization and active senior participation
-Preventing a population drain by encouraging young people to stay in their regional community and through implementing migration incentive policies

(2)Local Production for Local Consumption and Dietary Education
-Developing the connection between consumers and farmers
-Encouraging the use of local food in school lunches
-Preserving local cuisine through the handing down of local food traditions

(3)Signature Agricultural Product Promotion
-Promoting the Shimane brand
-Exploring new business opportunities outside Shimane

Itinerary
The Seminar was held from 16 November to 26 November, 2009.

1 Tokyo Seminar
The Tokyo Seminar’s primary focus was to provide knowledge on the Japanese local government system and the theme of the Seminar. It included lectures on the present state of affairs and issues in Japanese local governments.

2 Exchange Events in Local Authorities
In Shimane Prefecture, participants took part in tours, site visits, workshops, and meetings. In addition, participants also had the opportunity to experience Japanese culture.

go to TOP