On September 12, 2026, the final day of the 2nd JGES International, the 4th Assembly of WEGECA (Women Endoscopists for Global Exchange and Career Advancement) was held at the Toshi Center Hotel. WEGECA aims to promote networking among women gastrointestinal endoscopists, foster future leaders, and build international collaborations. This meeting was organized with two main objectives: (1) to develop women physicians who can play leadership roles on a global stage, and (2) to promote exchanges among endoscopists from Japan and abroad.

　The meeting was opened by Dr. Reiko Ashida of Wakayama Medical University, Chair of WEGECA. This was followed by a special welcome address from Dr. Hironori Yamamoto of Jichi Medical University, President of the 2nd JGES International.

Dr.Ashida, Chair of WEGECA (left photo), Dr. Yamamoto, Congress President of the 2nd JGES International.

　The first session was organized as a symposium featuring lectures by five distinguished women physicians who are actively contributing to clinical practice, education, and research both nationally and internationally. The session was moderated by Dr. Nonthalee Pausawasdi (Siriraj Hospital, Thailand) and Dr. Kakushima. Speakers included Dr. Keiko Maeda (Nagoya University, Japan), Dr. Carol Semrad (The University of Chicago, USA), Dr. Sneha John (Gold Coast University Hospital, Australia), Dr. Roberta Maselli (Humanitas San Pio X Hospital, Italy), and Dr. Lubna Kamani (Liaquat National Hospital, Pakistan).

Speakers (clockwise from top left): Dr. Maeda, Dr. Semrad, Dr. Kamani, Dr. Maseli, and Dr. John.

　The presentations covered a wide range of topics, including career development, medical education, research activities, team building, ergonomics in endoscopy, and contributions to regional healthcare. The internationally diverse lectures and discussions provided valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges faced by women physicians in different countries, while also highlighting future possibilities for international collaboration and professional development. The symposium concluded with special remarks from Dr. Akiko Shiotani of Kawasaki Medical School, Director in charge of the JGES Career Support Committee.

Dr.Kakushima and Dr.Pausawasdi, moderators of 4th WEGECA (left photo), Dr. Akiko Shiotani, the Director of Career Support Committee of JGES.

The second session consisted of a networking reception. The toast was delivered by Dr. Mitsuhiro Fujishiro of The University of Tokyo, President of the Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society. Participants engaged in lively discussions across specialties, institutions, and national borders. For young physicians in particular, the reception provided a valuable opportunity to interact directly with leading women endoscopists from around the world and to receive practical advice on career development and research activities. The meeting concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Chika Kusano of Kitasato University, host organizer of the 5th WEGECA.

Dr.Fujishiro, the President of JGES (left photo), Dr.Kusano, host organizer of the 5th WEGECA.

　The 4th Assembly of WEGECA was successfully completed as one of the programs symbolizing the international spirit of the 2nd JGES International. The meeting made a significant contribution to fostering new collaborations and mutual understanding among participants and is expected to further promote international research and educational activities in the future. Through WEGECA’s ongoing efforts, continued advancement of women gastrointestinal endoscopists and the development of the next generation of leaders are anticipated. Finally, we would like to express our sincere gratitude for all the supporting members and participants of the 4th Assembly of WEGECA.

Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society WEGECA
Akiko Shiotani (The Director of WEGECA)
Reiko Ashida (The chairperson of WEGECA)
Naomi Kakushima (The coordinator of 4th assembly of WEGECA)

 

Photos from the Session

 

The networking reception

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