The Proposed AP-GAINED workshop series will sponsor ~16 fellows through the APNIC ISIF Asia grant. These fellows will be provided with the Air Fare, complementary APAN registration, and a Per-Diem.

The objective of this session is to meet and greet the fellows, conduct pre-workshop surveys, and educate them on the expected outcome from the workshop and beyond (e.g., their contributions to the Open Educational Resources)

Sirtfi is a means to enable a coordinated response to a security incident in a federated context that does not depend on a centralised authority or governance structure to assign roles and responsibilities for doing so. It defines a modest set of security protections for federated entities and a standard means of publishing security contact information for them. A party participates in Sirtfi by first ensuring that they implement those security protections, then coordinating with their Federation Operator to publish this self-attestation together with their security contact information.

This presenation will discuss what Sirtif is, the participants and their roles and how it benefits the global federation space. We will also discribe the traffic light protocol that is central to Sirtfi.

Reports and presentations from federations across the Asia / Pacific region on activities aimed to advance and grow usage of their federation.

This sessions provides NRENs the opportunity highlight activities and advancements that have occurred with their identity federation deployments sharing successes and wins as well as issues that are impacting the growth and sustainability of their federations.

Topics of interest to federation operators from the Japaneses federation GakuNin that will impact the future viability of your federation.

• Orthros: An Authentication Proxy Service Promoting Academic Activities by AKANE, Eisaku

• GakuNin AAL2 Authenticator registry update (2025) by MIZUMOTO, Akinori

• Expansion of the group management system in GakuNin (2025) by SUZUKI, Hikofumi

• rogress of Mid-scale Experiment about GakuNin IAL2/AAL2 by NISHIMURA, Takeshi

Other topics will be discussed based on the available time.
 

The first session will be on "Flagship Achievements":
In this session the emerging NRENs will unfold their achievements within last one (1) year time specially focusing on the standout activities since the last APAN event that could earn acclaims from the member institutions. Revealing such achievements is crucial for the community with the consideration that it might be a learning example for other NRENs to adopt and implement in their respective countries. The achievements can be in the form of any special connectivity, acquisition of significant number of members, application of technology which seems to be prospective, installation of infrastructure which might prove to boost revenue earning or member satisfaction, implementation of any specific project, awarding with any grants to accomplish any project or on similar other issues.
The second session will be on "Enhancement of Collaboration"
This session will be kind of "panel discussion" type where the lead panelist will figure out the challenges that the emerging NRENs are encountering and the opportunities which NRENs might be allured to grab. A pre-survey will be conducted by discussing with the participating NRENs to figure out the faced encumbrances and the looming opportunities and the floor will be open for discussion.

This session highlights the role of National Research and Educational Networks (NRENs) as local trust anchors in identity federations. As trusted third parties, Identity federations support both local and cross-border inter-federation use cases. At the international level, eduGAIN provides an inter-federation service built on top of the trust layer provided by identity federations, and it allows students and researchers to access global services and resources for research and education.  We will showcase advanced use cases enabled by eduGAIN, such as MyAcademicID, a service that supports student mobility all across Europe, and MyAccessID, a service dedicated to give access to HPC systems. Finally we will discuss the policy and technological evolution of eduGAIN as trust infrastructure, with a focus on the implementation of the OpenID Federation standard for eduGAIN, and the support for wallets and digital credentials.

Panels participants/speakers:
- Pål Axelsson (SUNET) eduGAIN Steering Committee Chair
- Maarten Kremers (SURF) GEANT Project Trust and Identity Work Package leader
- Davide Vaghetti (GARR) eduGAIN Service Owner

Disaster Mitigation Working Group aims to build up capacity of hazard risk analysis by case studies, based on deeper understanding approach. Over 20 case studies of various types of hazards had been carried out in collaboration with partners from 2015. Accordingly, the regional infrastructure, collaboration model and numerical simulation tools would be growing with more case studies. In the long run, case studies are expected to be reproducible, and partners could make use of those shared services to conduct new cases.  In this meeting, experiences from partners on their local needs or requirements will be shared.

Contacts:

• Veerachai Tanpipat, Hydro-Informatics Institute (HII) and ThaiREN, veerachai@hii.or.th
• Eric Yen, Academia Sinica Grid Computing Center (ASGC) Taiwan, eric.yen@twgrid.org
• Franz de Leon, Advanced Science and Technology Institute (ASTI), Philippines, franz.deleon@asti.dost.gov.ph

Format: Presentations and Discussions

Wednesday, March 5, 2025
Session: 9:00am - 10:30am JST
1. Franz de Leon and Veerachai Tanpipat, Opening and Welcome talk (15 minutes)
2. Dr. Eric Yen , Academia Sinica Grid Computing Centre, “Updates on Regional Collaboration (Onsite 25 minutes)
3. Dr. Chuan-Yao Lin , Research Center for Environmental Changes (RCEC), Academia Sinica, “Application of a Cross-scale Atmospheric Chemical Transport Model for Air Quality Forecasting and Pollution Diagnosis Over Taiwan" (Onsite 25 minutes)
4. Dr. Adisorn Lertsinsrubtavee , Asian Institute of Technology, “A Study of PM2.5 Exposure in Urban Delivery Workers” (Onsite 25 Minutes)

Disaster Mitigation Working Group aims to build up capacity of hazard risk analysis by case studies, based on deeper understanding approach. Over 20 case studies of various types of hazards had been carried out in collaboration with partners from 2015. Accordingly, the regional infrastructure, collaboration model and numerical simulation tools would be growing with more case studies. In the long run, case studies are expected to be reproducible, and partners could make use of those shared services to conduct new cases.  In this meeting, experiences from partners on their local needs or requirements will be shared.

Contacts:

• Veerachai Tanpipat, Hydro-Informatics Institute (HII) and ThaiREN, veerachai@hii.or.th
• Eric Yen, Academia Sinica Grid Computing Center (ASGC) Taiwan, eric.yen@twgrid.org
• Franz de Leon, Advanced Science and Technology Institute (ASTI), Philippines, franz.deleon@asti.dost.gov.ph

Format: Presentations and Discussions

Wednesday, March 5, 2025
Session: 11am – 12:30pm JST
5. Ms. Watcharaporn Soyjumpa , Hydro-Informatics Institute, "A Tool Supporting Water Management Preparedness for Drought" (Onsite 25 Minutes)
6. Dr. Theerapol Charoensuk , Hydro-Informatics Institute, "Integrating Hydro-Informatics for flood disaster mitigation" (Onsite 25 Minutes)
7. Dr. Veerachai Tanpipat, veerachai@hii.or.th, “Updates on Forest Fire Control and Management in Thailand,” (Onsite 25 Minutes)
8. Discussion: Enhancing regional collaboration (15 minutes)

The NREN Leaders Forum was launched at APAN as a platform for NREN leaders to connect, share insights, and shape the future of research and education in the APAC region. Held twice a year at APAN meetings, the REN Leaders Forum brings together C-level executives and decision-makers from NRENs for strategic discussions.

The REN Leaders Forum has shown the transformative power of a shared vision and mutual support through collaborative initiatives in the last three iterations. As it continues to grow, the REN Leaders Forum is poised to shape the future of NRENs by addressing emerging challenges, fostering inclusivity, and enabling sustainable development. By uniting leaders and stakeholders in a common mission, the REN Leaders Forum remains a vital platform for creating a more connected and innovative future for research and education across the Asia-Pacific region. This time, in two sessions, we will have discussions within the APAC region and with the other regional NRENs.

Please refer to the agenda below,
Date - 5th March 2025
Mode - Hybrid
Session Moderators / Speakers - Prof Roshan Ragel & Dr Asitha Bandaranayake


1.30 to 1.35 - Welcome & Introduction [Roshan Ragel, Chair, SIG]
1.35 to 1.55 -Polar Connect: Strengthening Digital Autonomy [Valter Nordh, CEO, NORDUnet]
1.55 to 2.35 - Panel Discussion: Opportunities and Challenges in the Polar Connect Project [Valter Nordh : Chief Executive Officer at NORDUnet, Francis Lee : President of SingAREN & Shigeo Urushidani : Deputy Director General/Professor at National Institute of Informatics, Japan]
2.35 to 2.45 - Q & A
2.45 to 3.00 - Inspera - The new age of Digital Assessment [Kim Waldgrave]
3.00 to 3.30 - Break3.30 to 4.20 - AI and HPC in APAN [Asitha Bandaranayake, AI&HPC WG Chair]
4.20 to 4.40 - AI and HPC in APAN Discussion
4.40 to 4.50 - NREN Leaders Declaration of AI and HPC Collaboration in APAN
4.50 to 5.00 - Closing remarks [Roshan Ragel, Chair, SIG]

The NREN Leaders Forum was launched at APAN as a platform for NREN leaders to connect, share insights, and shape the future of research and education in the APAC region. Held twice a year at APAN meetings, the REN Leaders Forum brings together C-level executives and decision-makers from NRENs for strategic discussions.

The REN Leaders Forum has shown the transformative power of a shared vision and mutual support through collaborative initiatives in the last three iterations. As it continues to grow, the REN Leaders Forum is poised to shape the future of NRENs by addressing emerging challenges, fostering inclusivity, and enabling sustainable development. By uniting leaders and stakeholders in a common mission, the REN Leaders Forum remains a vital platform for creating a more connected and innovative future for research and education across the Asia-Pacific region. This time, in two sessions, we will have discussions within the APAC region and with the other regional NRENs.

The initiatives concerning ‘Commonality’ will serve as a primary objective. To achieve the standardization of rules and governance, it is essential to foster a shared understanding and application of concepts like ‘Interoperability’ within the Asia Pacific region. Successful cross-border collaborations, exemplified by fields such as Space and Life Sciences, have already been established, making it vital to identify the elements contributing to the success of such ‘Standardization’ efforts. Discussions will highlight the necessity of adopting ‘a more nuanced approach to each country and region,’ recognizing that a universal standard for Research Data Management (RDM) practices is not feasible.  Disseminating practices from regional initiatives that take into account the cultural contexts of each nation would offer valuable case studies for participants to explore this methodology. The concept of ‘Cultural Change’ serves as a fundamental component for collective progress. Furthermore, the ‘Methodology’ outlines the processes through which theoretical knowledge can be transformed into practical systems that researchers can effectively utilize. It is crucial to evaluate the types of technology that can facilitate the transition from concept to tangible outcomes.
1. International Initiatives on rules, recommendations, and standardizations, and Cross-border research initiatives
2. Regional Initiatives
3. Technical Initiatives on Engineering

Session1
Session Title: International Initiatives on rules, recommendations, and standardizations, and Cross-border research initiatives
Session Chair: Veerachai Tanpipat, HII-ThaiREN, Thailand
Talk (20 min/speaker)

1. Matti Heikkurinen
Project Portfolio Manager, CODATA;
Title: CODATA contributions to the FAIR data ecosystem: Open Science Clouds, CDIF and Data Policies
Abstract: The presentation provides an overview of the role of CODATA in promoting and supporting FAIR data and open science. A short introduction to the history and background of the organisation is followed by a more in-depth description of selected CODATA initiatives:
i.CODATA is involved in several Open Science Cloud or so-called “Research Commons” projects, including the Global and European Open Science Cloud initiatives. In this domain, CODATA facilitates alignment between the initiatives and their stakeholder networks, especially on the policy and governance levels.
ii.The Cross Domain Interoperability Framework (CDIF) supports this global alignment from operational and technological perspectives. CDIF emerged from analysing commonalities of best practices and opportunities in 11 distinct FAIR data challenges analysed in the EU-funded WordFAIR project. The recommendations outline solutions and approaches that pave the way towards a lingua franca that repositories can use to make disciplinary data more ready for cross-domain reuse and integration.
iii.The presentation will also briefly summarise other policy activities of CODATA and its links with the UN system supporting the goals outlined as the Sustainable Development Goals.
In closing, some opportunities to engage and interact with CODATA are presented, with a particular focus on the International Data Week (https://idw2025.org/) that will take place from the 13th to the 16th of October in Brisbane, Australia.

2. Mohd Nordin Abdul Rahman 
Assistant Vice Chansellor (Chief Digital Officer), Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), Malaysia;
Title: UniSZA Big Data Services Policy
Abstract: I will present and share the following key points: Introduction to Big Data Services - definition and its importance to academic institution. Highlight the purpose of the policy: how it will support research, teaching, learning and campus operations. Explain the needs of policy: data privacy, security, ethical usage and compliance with laws. Key policy components: data governance, roles, responsibilities and ownership of data. Data access and usage: outline who can access the data under what conditions. Security and privacy: mention encryption, anonymization and secure storage practices. Compliance: stress adherence to legal, institutional and ethical standards. Implementation and Enforcement: describe how the policy will be communicated enforced, and monitored. Highlight the role of training and awareness programs.

3. Daisuke Horyu 
National Agriculture and Food Research Organization (NARO), Japan
Title: Current status of the agricultural data sharing platform.

4. Discussion: Open floor discussion

The initiatives concerning ‘Commonality’ will serve as a primary objective. To achieve the standardization of rules and governance, it is essential to foster a shared understanding and application of concepts like ‘Interoperability’ within the Asia Pacific region. Successful cross-border collaborations, exemplified by fields such as Space and Life Sciences, have already been established, making it vital to identify the elements contributing to the success of such ‘Standardization’ efforts. Discussions will highlight the necessity of adopting ‘a more nuanced approach to each country and region,’ recognizing that a universal standard for Research Data Management (RDM) practices is not feasible.  Disseminating practices from regional initiatives that take into account the cultural contexts of each nation would offer valuable case studies for participants to explore this methodology. The concept of ‘Cultural Change’ serves as a fundamental component for collective progress. Furthermore, the ‘Methodology’ outlines the processes through which theoretical knowledge can be transformed into practical systems that researchers can effectively utilize. It is crucial to evaluate the types of technology that can facilitate the transition from concept to tangible outcomes.
1. International Initiatives on rules, recommendations, and standardizations, and Cross-border research initiatives
2. Regional Initiatives
3. Technical Initiatives on Engineering

Session2
Session Title: Regional Initiatives (Country Updates)
Session Chair: Kaz Yamaji, NII Japan
Talk (10min/speaker)

1. Mad Khir Johari Abudullah Sani, ,
Associate Professor Dr. Universiti Teknologi Mara, Malaysia;
Title: Modeling Sustainalism in Digital Libraries for Equilibrium Strategies in an Eco-Conscious Society
Abstract: The increasing reliance on digital libraries housed in data centers has raised significant environmental concerns, as these centers consumed about 1-2% of global electricity in 2020, projected to rise to 8% by 2030 without sustainable practices. This study introduces a sustainalism framework that integrates sustainable practices within digital libraries, aiming to balance technological advancement with ecological integrity. The research objectives include developing and validating a sustainalism model that emphasizes the use of green technologies, such as renewable energy and efficient cooling, to mitigate environmental impacts. Employing a mixed methods approach, the study is structured in two phases: Phase one utilizes qualitative methods, including case studies and expert interviews, to create a conceptual framework for sustainable digital operations. Phase two applies quantitative methods to validate the model through surveys and data collection from stakeholders in library and information science. The anticipated outcomes are a validated model for sustainable digital library operations that aligns with key national and global sustainability policies, including the Malaysia Green Technology Master Plan and the Sustainable Development Goals. Ultimately, this research positions digital libraries as leaders in environmental stewardship, contributing to global climate initiatives and ensuring that digital progress aligns with ecological health.

2. Prabath Priyankara, ,
UMGJ Jayawardhana, Niluka Nakandalage, DT Andarahannadi
Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka;
Title: Digital Conservation: A National Database to Safeguard Sri Lanka’s Medicinal Heritage
Abstract: Medicinal plants are invaluable to healthcare and traditional medicine, yet many species are endangered due to habitat loss, overharvesting, and limited conservation resources. This project focuses on developing a national database for medicinal plants in Sri Lanka, aimed at consolidating comprehensive, accessible information to support research, conservation, and public awareness. By collecting data from field visits, academic resources, and traditional knowledge sources, the database organizes critical information on plant species, including endangered and vulnerable categories. Utilizing a structured database design on a LAMP server, this platform is accessible through a user-friendly website, enabling researchers, educators, and the public to access up-to-date information on medicinal plants. This initiative not only facilitates conservation by preserving essential knowledge and genetic resources but also promotes sustainable use of these species. Ultimately, this project aims to empower conservation efforts and safeguard Sri Lanka’s rich medicinal plant heritage for future generations.

3. Sa-Kwang Song and Jungho Um, 
KISTI Korea
Title: Research Software Sharing System in KISTI
Abstract: This presentation introduces KISTI's Open Science activities, with a particular focus on KRDC (Korea Research Data Commons), a framework for sharing and utilizing research software. KRDC is a system developed to enhance the scalability and flexibility of the research software sharing and utilization functions of DataON, the Korea Research Data Management Platform. KRDC has been developed using various open-source software, including Kubernetes and Docker for cloud orchestration, as well as MinIO and GitLab. It provides environments for JupyterLab, S3 storage (MinIO), software source code sharing (GitLab), software application development and sharing, and software workflow development and sharing. KRDC is designed for easy deployment on public cloud environments and enables interconnection between KRDC instances, facilitating the sharing and utilization of research software. Additionally, we will explore cases of KRDC integration and introduce methods for linking the KRDC system with other KRDC instances or research data platforms, highlighting its scalability.

4. Masaharu Hayashi, Toshiyuki Hiraki, Yusuke Komiyama, and Kazu Yamaji
NII Japan;
Title: Accelerating Immediate Open Access: Integrating Research Data Management System and Institutional Repositories

5. Trish Radotic,
RDA Regional Community Manager (Oceania and East Asia), Australian Research Data Commons (ARDC)
Title: APAN Open and Sharing WG: Australian Initiatives
Abstract: An Australian perspective of open and collaborative research projects from the Australian Research Data Commons (ARDC). Focusing on the programs within our Thematic Research Data Commons, and Dataspaces, a new initiative within the Planet Research Data Commons to develop a trusted space where researchers, government agencies and industry can share and collaborate on sensitive data.

6. LU Changfa ,
Senior Engineer, Computer Network Information Center of Chinese Academy of Sciences, China
Title: Reflection and Practice on FAIRification using FairStack: A Software Stack for Scientific Data Centers

7. Discussion: Open floor discussion

The initiatives concerning ‘Commonality’ will serve as a primary objective. To achieve the standardization of rules and governance, it is essential to foster a shared understanding and application of concepts like ‘Interoperability’ within the Asia Pacific region. Successful cross-border collaborations, exemplified by fields such as Space and Life Sciences, have already been established, making it vital to identify the elements contributing to the success of such ‘Standardization’ efforts. Discussions will highlight the necessity of adopting ‘a more nuanced approach to each country and region,’ recognizing that a universal standard for Research Data Management (RDM) practices is not feasible.  Disseminating practices from regional initiatives that take into account the cultural contexts of each nation would offer valuable case studies for participants to explore this methodology. The concept of ‘Cultural Change’ serves as a fundamental component for collective progress. Furthermore, the ‘Methodology’ outlines the processes through which theoretical knowledge can be transformed into practical systems that researchers can effectively utilize. It is crucial to evaluate the types of technology that can facilitate the transition from concept to tangible outcomes.
1. International Initiatives on rules, recommendations, and standardizations, and Cross-border research initiatives
2. Regional Initiatives
3. Technical Initiatives on Engineering

Session3
Session Title: Technical Initiatives on Engineering
Session Chair: Jyoti Bhogal, RSE
Talk (15min/speaker)

1. Jyoti Bhogal 
Co-founder and Lead, Research Software Engineering Asia Association, India;
Title: Building Bridges: Advancing Research Software Engineering and Open Science in Asia, Research Software Engineers (RSEs) are crucial to advancing computational research and enabling Open Science.
Abstract: In Asia, however, formal recognition of RSE roles and structured career pathways remains limited. Since 2022, the RSEng community in Asia has seen significant progress, marked by three annual online unconferences held from 2022 to 2024. These events fostered collaboration and knowledge exchange between RSEng communities across Asia and Australia. An ongoing study is exploring the RSEng landscape in Asia by engaging Early, Mid-Career, and Senior Researchers. Inspired by the Software Sustainability Institute’s community surveys (https://softwaresaved.github.io/international-survey-2022/), this study adapts methodologies to the Asian context, aiming to uncover the unique challenges, opportunities, and aspirations of researchers who code. Insights from this study are expected to inform policy-making by organisations like the Asia Pacific Advanced Network. Furthermore, currently a collaborative six-month series with RSE Asia Association and RSSE Africa is spotlighting diverse aspects of enabling Open Science through research code. This initiative is strengthening global ties, fostering capacity building, and promoting best practices. This talk will showcase the growth and potential of the RSEng community in Asia, aiming to inspire collaboration, share actionable ideas, and encourage sustainable RSEng communities across the region and beyond.

2. Chris Janson
Senior market advisor, Nokia, United States;
Title: Protecting REN data in the quantum age
Abstract: Research and Education networks should be concerned about threats to data integrity resulting from quantum computing development. In the coming years, commonly used asymmetric ciphers will be vulnerable to compromise by cryptographically-relevant quantum computers (CRQC). The Global Risk Institute puts the likelihood of CRQC existence at over 30% within the next nine years. Even sooner, threat actors could be storing encrypted data for later deciphering. Operators need to act now. New directives have emerged aimed at protective measures such as symmetric ciphers, and quantum key distribution (QKD). The US NIST recently standardized post-quantum cryptography (PQC), to replace asymmetric, public-key frameworks. Together these technologies offer quantum age protection. How do we define a quantum-safe network? What roles do AES, QKD and PQC play? How should keys be distributed? What does this mean for those planning network investments over the next few years? In this presentation, we offer an outline of the quantum-computing threat, a definition of a quantum-safe network, and provide an architecture for immediate protection, capable of evolution. We will provide and overview of an evolutive quantum-safe network deployment, showing how it is a strong example of a quantum-safe network for any application.

3. Ai Sugiura
Programme Specialist for Natural Sciences at UNESCO's East Asia Regional Office
Title: Introduction to the International Congress of Engineer in 2024
Advancing Open Science in East Asia: Fostering Collaboration through Open Hydrology, Engineering, and Interoperability UNESCO Beijing is advancing Open Science (OS) through initiatives like Open Hydrology (IHP), promoting transparent water data sharing, and fostering inclusivity within MAB and UGGp. Efforts in Open Engineering enhance research reproducibility and South-South cooperation. An upcoming regional survey on Open Science Infrastructures (OSI) and interoperability aims to identify shared platforms, explore multilingual metadata practices, and provide insights to improve cross-border collaboration and accessibility in East Asia​

4. ZHU Xiaojie
Senior Engineer, Computer Network Information Center of Chinese Academy of Sciences, China
Title: Supporting open and sharing data practices with end-to-end workflow framework for cross-center data analysis
Abstract: The rapid development of big data and artificial intelligence technologies has led to the transformation of research paradigms. The convergence research paradigm emphasizes collaborative analysis of scientific data from different domains to achieve scientific discoveries, where analysis task types are diverse and analysis processes span across different scientific data centers. Existing process-based analysis frameworks are difficult to support end-to-end cross-center scientific data analysis requirements due to the lack of analysis process expression capabilities, heterogeneous computing framework integration capabilities, and cross-center job scheduling capabilities. This paper proposes a software framework for performing end-to-end cross-center analysis of scientific data, supporting the construction of heterogeneous workflows across centers, transparent data transfer across frameworks, optimized scheduling of cross-center jobs, and data ownership and traceability. This framework effectively addresses the challenges of cross-center scientific data analysis, providing researchers in different scientific fields with powerful tools for comprehensive and collaborative analysis. Finally, we validate the advancement and feasibility of this framework by combining it with real-world scenarios.
Keywords: scientific research paradigm, analysis workflow, scientific data center, cross-center computing.

5. Discussion: Open floor discussion