A notable highlight of the meeting was the signing of a Letter of Agreement (LoA) between Mr. Bae Pheaxy (Vice Dean of FES, on behaft of Assoc. Prof. Kaisone Phengsopha – Dean of FES), and Prof. Motokawa Masaharu from Kyoto University Museum. This agreement sets the stage for future research collaborations and training initiatives between the two esteemed institutions.
The meeting featured a series of captivating presentations elucidating various aspects of vertebrate diversity research in the region:
A Brief History of Research Collaboration: Prof. Masaharu Motokawa provided insights into the collaborative efforts between Kyoto University Museum and FES, offering a glimpse into their shared journey of scientific exploration.
Wildlife Research at FES: Dr. Bounsavane Douangboubpha shared findings from the ongoing wildlife research and collection efforts at NUoL’s FES, shedding light on the diverse array of species inhabiting the region.
Reptile and Amphibian Research: Dr. Somphouthone Phimmachak delved into reptile and amphibian research in Lao PDR, showcasing the invaluable contributions of the Faculty of Natural Sciences (FNS) at NUoL.
Insights from Southeast Asia: Prof. Kanto Nishikawa from Kyoto University offered a comprehensive overview of reptile and amphibian research across Southeast Asia, providing a broader context for understanding regional biodiversity patterns.
Avian Research in Lao PDR: Dr. Santi Xayyasith provided an overview of avian research activities within Lao PDR, highlighting the importance of understanding bird populations for conservation efforts.
Wildlife Research in Vietnam: Dr. Bui Tuan Hai from the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST) offered insights into wildlife research endeavors in Vietnam, emphasizing the need for collaborative approaches to biodiversity conservation.
In the afternoon session, the event transitioned into an engaging workshop, drawing the participation of numerous students from the FES and the FNS at NUoL. Guided by scientists from Kyoto University, VAST, and NUoL, students eagerly honed their skills in identifying vertebrate species based on their appearances.
The event served as a testament to the collective commitment towards unraveling the mysteries of vertebrate diversity in the region, fostering collaboration, and nurturing the next generation of biodiversity stewards.
