General Incorporated Association Reaching Zero-Dose Children Holds 'Ghana Tour Showcase' Project Report Meeting

General Incorporated Association Reaching Zero-Dose Children Holds 'Ghana Tour Showcase' Project Report Meeting

On April 19, 2026, the General Incorporated Association Reaching Zero-Dose Children (based in Tokyo) hosted the 'Ghana Tour Showcase' at the Yushima Campus of the Tokyo Institute of Science and Technology. The event was held in collaboration with the Ghana Students’ Union Japan, with the purpose of reporting on the outcomes of the Ghana field project conducted in February 2026, showcasing the appeal of Ghana, and discussing potential future collaborations in global health.

Opening remarks were given by Mr. Ye-Ming Li, secretary to House of Representatives member Manabu Sakai. Guests included Deputy Ambassador Francis Thalamus DOE and Mr. Christopher E.K. Gaba from the Embassy of the Republic of Ghana in Japan.

### Reporting on Ghana Project Outcomes

Members who traveled to Ghana presented their reports through posters and presentations on visits to medical facilities, local health education, vaccination challenges, and lessons learned.

Poster presentations covered three themes: 'Ghana's Healthcare System,' 'Vaccination Challenges,' and 'Health Education Projects.' Attendees engaged in lively discussions regarding Ghana's healthcare framework, access to vaccinations, and community-based health education.

In a presentation, member Hirata shared findings on the cold chain challenges observed locally and offered recommendations for both Japan and Ghana.

### Discussions with Companies and Researchers

During the morning session, Yuta Ohashi from Toyota Tsusho Corporation was invited to discuss the logistics, technology adoption, and potential collaboration between corporations and student organizations in the 'last mile' of vaccine delivery.

Effective vaccine delivery requires multi-layered systems, including transport, storage, information sharing, and partnerships with local stakeholders. The session provided practical insights on connecting corporate expertise with student field experience.

In the afternoon, Professor Tomoko Ishino of the Department of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine at the Tokyo Institute of Science and Technology discussed the realities of Japan-Ghana joint research, challenges in international collaboration, the difficulties in preventing and treating malaria, and the future outlook for malaria vaccines.

### Cultural Exchange with Ghana Students’ Union Japan

Cultural showcases were presented by the Ghana Students’ Union Japan. Exhibitions on Ghanaian food, apparel, and traditional culture were on display, deepening attendees' understanding of the country.

A dance session, featuring traditional 'Kakalika' and 'Azonto' dances, brought participants together and energized the venue.

### Moving Forward from Lessons Learned in Ghana

Reaching Zero-Dose Children plans to continue disseminating the knowledge gained through advocacy, research, and future events. A report is currently being compiled and will be published soon.

As a youth-led organization addressing the issue of 'zero-dose children'—those who have never received a single vaccination—the group remains committed to advocating for more equitable access to immunization through global cooperation, policy recommendations, and educational initiatives.