Recently, I took the stage at a seminar in Kumamoto titled "The Latest Generative AI Trends." In this article, I would like to share my thoughts on the challenges facing Kumamoto's AI revolution and the potential for innovation originating from rural areas.

Discussing the future of AI at the foot of Kumamoto Castle

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Surprisingly Hot! The AI Situation in Kumamoto

To be honest, I was a little worried at first. I wondered how much interest there would be in AI in Kumamoto, not Tokyo or Osaka... But my worries turned out to be unfounded. The venue was packed, and the participants were very serious. During the Q&A session, there were many sharp questions, and I could feel the enthusiasm of the people of Kumamoto for AI.

A surprising experience at the Kumamoto seminar

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• The venue was packed
• The participants were all serious.
• During the Q&A session, sharp questions were asked one after another.
• Realizing the high level of interest in AI in rural areas

It was a day in which I was inspired by the enthusiasm of the people of Kumamoto.

I was surprised by Kumamoto Prefecture's AI strategy.

At the seminar, I had the opportunity to exchange opinions with representatives from the Digital Promotion Bureau of the Kumamoto Prefecture Planning and Promotion Department. To be honest, I was surprised to hear what they had to say. Specific strategies are already underway, such as the use of AI in agriculture and the introduction of AI to quality control in the manufacturing industry.

When I joked, "I wonder if we could use AI to restore Kumamoto Castle...", I received a response that they would seriously consider it. I feel like I have learned a lot from the flexible ideas and execution capabilities of the people of Kumamoto.

Coexistence of AI and humans, Kumamoto style

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Seriousness about human resource development

What impressed me about the conversation with the Kumamoto Nichinichi Shimbun was their perspective on the coexistence of AI and humans. While they are adept at using AI, they also value the creativity and judgment that only humans can possess.

What was particularly interesting was the educational program being implemented by Kumamoto Prefecture, which is seriously working to develop the next generation, including programming education for elementary school students and AI literacy education in high school.

Overview of Kumamoto Prefecture's AI Education Program

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1. A workshop for elementary school students to learn basic programming and become familiar with AI
2. Advanced programming for junior high school students and above Introduction of basic concepts of AI
3. AI literacy education for high school students: problem-solving project using actual AI tools
4. AI internships in collaboration with universities and local companies AI engineer training programs

Kumamoto Prefecture is serious about nurturing the next generation of AI talent, and this comprehensive approach could serve as a model for other regions.

A fusion of tradition and innovation

What I found interesting about Kumamoto's efforts is the fusion of traditional industries and AI. For example, they have begun efforts to introduce AI into the manufacturing process of Kuma Shochu to improve quality control and production efficiency.

This is truly Kumamoto-esque. Cherishing tradition while incorporating new technology. This attitude may be the shape of the future where AI and humans coexist.

From local to global: The potential of AI

Opportunities for global expansion

During the seminar, the topic of promoting Kumamoto's specialties and technologies to the world came up. By utilizing AI-based multilingual translation and market analysis, opportunities to promote the charms of the region to the world will increase. The day when Kumamoto's agricultural products and traditional crafts are recognized by people all over the world through the power of AI may not be far off.

The birth of a new business model

AI has the potential to create unprecedented business models. For example, AI-based experiential tourism that takes advantage of Kumamoto's nature and culture, or startups that use AI to solve local issues, the possibilities are endless, depending on the ideas.

I myself have come up with new business ideas through my conversations with the people of Kumamoto. I hope to become more involved with Kumamoto and create new value together with them.

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Conclusion: Expectations for Kumamoto in the AI era

Through this seminar, I was reminded of the enormous potential that AI can bring to rural areas. At the same time, I also realized that it is ultimately people who can make the most of it.

The enthusiasm and drive of the people of Kumamoto will surely transform this new wave of AI into an opportunity. As an individual, I would like to continue supporting the AI revolution in Kumamoto, however small my contribution may be.

Why don't you think about how you can use AI in your own area? I'm sure you'll make some new discoveries.

See you next time! This is Chaen.