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Sunday, September 1, 2024

JSIP and OIST sign MOU to support startups in Asia

  

Building a bridge between the startup ecosystems of Asia and Okinawa to foster innovation.

The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) and the Japan Southeast Asia Innovation Platform (JSIP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at supporting startup communities in Okinawa and Asia. Through this partnership, they seek to strengthen the startup ecosystem and accelerate innovation in Okinawa and across Asia. The collaboration will involve co-organized seminars, mentoring OIST-based startups by JSIP, joint branding and marketing efforts, and supporting startup growth through industry-academia collaboration.

JSIP is a community platform for the launch and growth of new, Japanese business ventures in Southeast Asia. Centered in Singapore, it unites experts from Japan and the rest of the world to foster cross-industry collaboration, creating a solid foundation for rapid business expansion throughout the region.

The signing of this MOU is expected to further energize the startup ecosystem in Okinawa, marking a significant step towards extending the pioneer spirit of Okinawa to the rest of Asia and beyond.

【Goals of the MOU】

Planning and organizing joint seminars: Co-hosting seminars for startups in the Asia region to introduce the latest trends in technology and business.

Mentoring by JSIP: JSIP will provide mentoring to OIST-based startups to help them address their challenges.

Joint branding and marketing: Leveraging both parties' networks and resources to support startup branding and marketing.

Other related matters: Implementing various measures to accelerate startup growth through industry-academia collaboration.

【Comments】

• Gil Granot-Mayer, OIST Executive Vice President for Technology Development and Innovation: " The signing of this MOU is a crucial step towards accelerating the growth and innovation of startups in Asia, while unlocking the potential of Okinawa. This collaboration will further strengthen Okinawa’s startup ecosystem, significantly contributing to the region's economic development. OIST aims to become a hub for innovation, fostering a startup ecosystem rooted in Okinawa and expanding throughout Asia."

• Takaki Nakamura, Founder of JSIP's management team: "We are honored to partner with OIST, a cutting-edge academic and research institution that attracts top global talent. This collaboration will serve as a foundation for bridging the startup ecosystems of Southeast Asia and Okinawa, fostering new innovations and embodying JSIP's vision of building 'innovation infrastructure' that connects Japan and Southeast Asia. Our team is excited about the upcoming collaboration."

About Japan Southeast Asia Innovation Platform (JSIP)

JSIP is a "Co-creation" community platform created for Japanese companies working on new businesses in Southeast Asia, with the aim of accelerating and expanding it. By bringing together people with similar missions to synergy together across industry, sector and organizational boundaries, we are building a foundation in Singapore that will dramatically accelerate the growth of new businesses in Southeast Asia.


Saturday, August 31, 2024

Health vs. Finance: Striking the Right Balance for a Better Life


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In today's fast-paced world, individuals often find themselves caught in a tug-of-war between health and finance. The two are intrinsically linked; one's financial situation can significantly impact their health and vice versa. This article delves into the relationship between health and finance, examining the importance of each, how they interact, and offering practical tips on maintaining a balance.

The Interdependence of Health and Finance

Health and finance are more intertwined than most people realize. A person’s financial situation often determines the quality of healthcare they receive, the kind of diet they can afford, and the lifestyle they lead. Conversely, health problems can lead to substantial medical expenses, affect earning capacity, and ultimately strain financial stability.

Health as an Investment

Health should be viewed as an investment rather than a cost. Prioritizing health can lead to long-term financial savings. For instance, investing in a healthy diet, regular exercise, and preventive healthcare can reduce the likelihood of expensive medical conditions. Studies have shown that individuals who prioritize their health tend to have lower medical expenses over their lifetimes. Furthermore, a healthy lifestyle can increase productivity, which can translate into higher earnings and career advancement.

Financial Stability as a Determinant of Health

On the flip side, financial stability plays a crucial role in determining an individual's health. People with steady income streams and financial security are more likely to have access to better healthcare, nutritious food, and opportunities for physical activity. Financial stress, on the other hand, can contribute to poor mental health, manifesting as anxiety or depression, and can also lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms like smoking or overeating.

How Financial Struggles Impact Health

Financial difficulties can create a domino effect that adversely impacts health in several ways. Understanding these effects is crucial for addressing the root causes and finding solutions.

Access to Healthcare

A major area where financial struggles directly impact health is access to healthcare services. In many countries, particularly those without universal healthcare, individuals with limited financial resources may forgo necessary medical care due to cost concerns. This can lead to the worsening of chronic conditions, delayed treatment of illnesses, and a lack of preventive care, which can ultimately result in higher healthcare costs down the line.

Nutrition and Diet

Finances also significantly impact a person's ability to maintain a healthy diet. Healthier foods, like fresh fruits, vegetables, and organic products, tend to be more expensive than processed and fast foods. Individuals on a tight budget might opt for cheaper, less nutritious food options, which can increase the risk of obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related illnesses.

Mental Health and Financial Stress

Financial instability is a leading cause of stress, which can have severe implications for mental health. Prolonged financial anxiety can lead to disorders such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia. These mental health issues, if left untreated, can affect physical health, reducing one's ability to work, earn, and manage finances, thereby creating a vicious cycle.

How Poor Health Affects Finances

Just as financial difficulties can impact health, poor health can significantly affect one's financial situation. This bidirectional relationship is critical to understand for anyone looking to improve both their health and financial well-being.

Medical Expenses

Poor health often leads to increased medical expenses, which can strain personal finances. Chronic conditions, hospitalizations, surgeries, and medications can be costly, especially for those without adequate insurance coverage. High medical bills are one of the leading causes of debt and bankruptcy in many countries.

Reduced Earning Capacity

Health issues can also reduce a person's ability to work, whether through time off due to illness, reduced productivity, or even early retirement due to disability. This loss of income can have a long-lasting impact on one's financial situation, making it harder to save for future needs, invest, or even meet daily expenses.

Health-Related Job Loss

In severe cases, health problems can lead to job loss. Without adequate health coverage or disability insurance, individuals may find themselves without an income, further exacerbating financial struggles. The fear of losing a job due to health issues can also discourage people from seeking necessary medical care, creating a dangerous feedback loop.

Balancing Health and Finance: Practical Strategies

Understanding the interplay between health and finance is the first step in creating a balanced approach to both. Here are some practical strategies for managing both aspects effectively.

Budget for Health

Just as you budget for rent, utilities, and entertainment, budgeting for health-related expenses is essential. Allocate a portion of your income to preventive care, such as regular check-ups, a gym membership, or buying fresh and nutritious foods. Consider health insurance as an investment in your future financial security.

Build an Emergency Fund

An emergency fund is a safety net that can protect you from financial ruin in the case of unexpected health problems. Aim to save three to six months' worth of expenses in a readily accessible account. This fund can help cover medical expenses, time off work, or any other emergencies that may arise.

Prioritize Preventive Health Measures

Preventive health measures, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine medical check-ups, can reduce the likelihood of costly medical conditions. Prioritizing these measures is an investment in both your health and financial future. Simple lifestyle changes, like walking more, quitting smoking, or managing stress, can significantly impact long-term health and reduce healthcare costs.

Manage Financial Stress

Addressing financial stress is crucial for maintaining both mental and physical health. Create a realistic budget, reduce unnecessary expenses, and seek financial counseling if needed. Practicing mindfulness and other stress-reducing techniques can also help manage the mental health aspects of financial stress.

Health Insurance: A Critical Tool for Financial and Health Security

Health insurance plays a vital role in balancing health and finance. Understanding the importance of health insurance and choosing the right plan is crucial for financial stability.

The Importance of Health Insurance

Health insurance provides a safety net against unexpected medical expenses. Without insurance, a single medical emergency could drain savings or plunge a person into debt. Even with insurance, the right coverage is essential to ensure that out-of-pocket costs do not become unmanageable.

Choosing the Right Health Insurance Plan

Selecting a health insurance plan involves understanding your health needs, financial situation, and risk tolerance. Consider factors like premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and the network of healthcare providers. A high-deductible plan might be suitable for someone young and healthy, while a more comprehensive plan could be better for someone with chronic conditions or a family.

Financial Literacy: Key to Balancing Health and Finance

Financial literacy is a critical skill for managing both health and finance. Understanding how to budget, save, invest, and plan for retirement can help individuals make informed decisions that support both their financial and health goals.

Budgeting and Saving

Creating a budget that includes allocations for healthcare, emergencies, and savings can help manage financial stress. Tracking expenses and adjusting the budget as needed can ensure that both health and financial needs are met.

Investing in Health and Wealth

Investing isn't just about stocks and bonds; it’s also about investing in one’s health. Consider wellness programs, fitness memberships, or even healthy cooking classes as investments in your future. Simultaneously, invest in traditional financial assets to build wealth over time.

Planning for Retirement

Planning for retirement should include considerations for healthcare costs, which often increase with age. Understanding potential healthcare expenses and planning accordingly can help ensure financial stability in retirement.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Balance

Health and finance are two pillars of a stable and fulfilling life. While they may seem to compete for attention and resources, they are, in reality, mutually reinforcing. Prioritizing health can lead to financial savings, and sound financial management can improve health outcomes. By understanding their interdependence and implementing strategies to balance both, individuals can achieve a healthier, more financially secure future.

Balancing health and finance requires a proactive approach, but the rewards of this balance — a longer, healthier, and more financially stable life — are well worth the effort.


DepEd partners with iamtheCODE to empower Filipino women with coding skills


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The Department of Education (DepEd) has partnered with iamtheCODE to provide free coding and digital skills courses to Filipino young women and girls and strengthen its Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics and Design (STEAMED) initiative.

The partnership was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by Education Secretary Sonny Angara, following a courtesy visit and presentation by iamtheCODE founder Lady Mariéme Jamme on Thursday. The said signing was witnessed by several notable figures, including First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, UN Women Goodwill Ambassador Karen Davila, Her Legacy Foundation Co-Founder Darlene Ty-Nilo , and Philippine Ambassador to Spain Philippe J. Lhuillier, alongside members of the DepEd executive committee.

iamtheCODE is the first African-led global movement that aims to empower a million young women and girls to become coders and creative problem-solvers by 2030.

“We are helping people around the world. Not just it’s African-led, but I think that our knowledge and our expertise can also serve the Filipino community here,” Lady Mariéme highlighted.


Through the partnership, iamtheCODE will provide access to DepEd schools to its 12-week blended curriculum (comprised of STEAMED workshops, apprenticeship programmes, and a repository of open-source online courses). Likewise, the iamtheCODE platform is set to offer over 60,000 free courses to young Filipino women and girls. The courses cover technical and soft skills lessons, with a focus on STEAMED.

As part of the implementation strategy, a skills benchmarking exercise will be conducted by iamtheCODE, in collaboration with DepEd, to identify the specific needs of Filipino students. This will ensure that the program is effectively tailored to suit the local context.

DepEd will also disseminate information about the availability of the courses, while iamtheCODE will assist with the pilot implementation in selected schools. The program is planned to be piloted from Grade 7 to Junior High School in voluntary schools across various regions.

Secretary Sonny Angara thanked Lady Mariéme for iamtheCODE’s dedication to empowering Filipino learners through the platform.

“The presence of Lady M here only underscores our shared interest to sign up even more Filipino young women and girls to iamtheCODE’s programs, and give more of them a fighting chance at a better life for themselves and their loved ones,” Secretary Angara said.



The initiative, which also aims to enhance knowledge in STEM, artificial intelligence (AI), and coding skills among high school students, has been a priority for Secretary Angara since his first week in office. The groundwork for this expansive initiative was diligently managed behind the scenes by Tootsy Angara, Secretary Angara’s wife.
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