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NS Forum Held: "1% Innovation Shapes the Future--DX Strategies in the Age of Generative AI"

Update: June 9 2025

On May 29, 2025, the NS Forum titled "1% Innovation Shapes the Future - DX Strategies in the Age of Generative AI" was held at ICU's T-kan, moderated by Professor Keisuke Ishibashi. The forum featured Mr. Takahiro Anno--a renowned AI engineer, entrepreneur, and science fiction writer--who spoke on digital transformation (DX) strategies utilizing generative AI. Approximately 100 students and faculty members participated in the event (including online attendees).

The NS Forum is a seminar series hosted by the Department of Natural Sciences, introducing the latest technologies and research achievements by external researchers and engineers.

Mr. Anno emphasized the growing importance of "broad listening"--the ability to receive diverse viewpoints using evolving technologies--alongside the traditional "broadcasting" model of information seen in newspapers, television, and the early internet. He then introduced real-world examples of technologies that enable broad listening and elaborated on how new AI technologies can drive forward DX. He also addressed how AI could be leveraged to ensure that all public opinion is reflected in politics without anyone being left behind, and highlighted key considerations when advancing DX initiatives.

Further, he touched on the potential of applying the open-source model, which is commonly used in software and system development, to politics. He noted that even without advanced technical knowledge, people can use basic communication tools like YouTube and phone calls to express their views, advocating for a broad range of methods to ensure participation.

Following the lecture, a lively exchange of opinions took place with many students posing questions. In response to a question about AI running amok and the need for regulation, Mr. Anno stated, "AI is a powerful tool that can be used for good or ill. To preserve pathways for beneficial uses, the focus should not be on restricting the technology itself but rather on robust regulation of its misuse."

Feedback from participating students after the forum included the following:

"The approach to the topic was very unique and engaging. It strongly motivated me to accomplish something new through technology.

"I realized that, to determine how much we can trust and rely on AI, we need to cultivate our own digital literacy, especially given its limitations."

"I believe that AI can coexist with humans by helping us organize vast information into understandable formats, which humans then analyze and interpret as the decision-makers."

This NS Forum served as a valuable opportunity to reflect on DX strategies and civic engagement in the age of generative AI.