8:20 to 8:30
Welcome and Introduction

Satoshi Miyazaki National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (Japan)

Session Chair

Anna Moore The Australian National Univ. (Australia)

8:30 to 9:15
Moving TMT forward: Japan’s contributions and transformative approach toward community engagement

	Tomonori Usuda National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ) (Japan)
	Yuko Kakazu National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ) and TMT International Observatory (United States)

The Thirty Meter Telescope International Observatory (TIO) is an ambitious international scientific endeavor. In Part 1, we highlight Japan’s contributions toward technical advancements. Building upon the scientific and engineering success of the Subaru Telescope and ALMA, Japan leads in developing the telescope structure, primary mirror production, and cutting-edge science instruments. Part 2 delves into TIO’s transformative shift toward community engagement. At TIO, we believe in community model of astronomy that upholds the values of inclusion, respect, and community stewardship. We are committed to listening to, learning from, and working together with Hawaiʻi communities to build a brighter future for all.

Tomonori Usuda is Director of NAOJ TMT Project and TIO board member. From 2006 to 2013, he was the Associate Director of the Subaru Telescope in Hawaiʻi. Dr. Usuda’s background is in Optical and Infrared astronomy, and his principal research interests include star formation, interstellar medium, exoplanets, and developments of advanced infrared instrumentation & telescopes.

Yuko Kakazu, the Education, Outreach, and Broader Impacts Manager for the TIO and NAOJ TMT project, is committed to advancing education and workforce development for underserved students. With 17 years of experience in Hawaiʻi, she previously spearheaded education and outreach at Subaru Telescope. Additionally, she holds leadership positions, serving as Director and Education Committee Chair at the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Hawaiʻi, Trustee and Education Ambassador at the OIST Foundation, and Council Leader at the U.S.-Japan Council.

9:15 to 10:00
From dark skies to bright futures: the evolution of astronomy in Africa and the hosting of the historic International Astronomical Union General Assembly 2024

Charles Takalana African Astronomical Society (AfAS) (South Africa)

Africa's unique dark skies offer vast potential for astronomy, which has significantly advanced over the last two decades through substantial investment in infrastructure and human capital. The African Astronomical Society (AfAS), relaunched in 2019, plays a crucial role in this ascent, enhancing the network of astronomers across the continent, fostering research collaborations, and advising on policy. Noteworthy achievements for Astronomy in Africa include securing a bid to host the mid-frequency component of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) telescope, hosting the first International Astronomical Union (IAU) General Assembly in Africa in August 2024, and being home to the IAU Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) since 2011. This talk highlights these milestones, illustrating the community's commitment to developing astronomy on the continent and utilising astronomy as a tool to address developmental challenges.

Charles Mpho Takalana earned his PhD in Astronomy and Astrophysics at the University of the Witwatersrand in 2020. He has led the African Astronomical Society's Secretariat since 2021, overseeing projects and supporting its committees. Additionally, Charles is the Vice Chair of the IAU General Assembly's National Organising Committee for the 2024 Cape Town event. With a background as an Astronomy Policy Researcher at SARAO, he is dedicated to astronomy outreach, particularly engaging youth.