The open-access international academic journal on digital fields, “Journal of Digital Life,” held its second conference, “The Conference of Digital Life vol.2,” on Monday, September 16, 2024, at Osaka University of Economics in Osaka City. With “digital” as a central theme, approximately 50 researchers from various fields participated, engaging in activities such as short-pitch presentations and the showcasing of academic papers. The venue witnessed lively discussions and exchanges of ideas, highlighting the conference’s role as a platform for matching the needs of researchers and industry professionals.
■ Discussing the Future at the Site of Expo 2025
Professor Kenji Nakamura of Osaka University of Economics, serving as the chair of the organizing committee, commented in his opening remarks, “The strides in digital technology development in recent years have been remarkable. I hope this conference helps us better understand what the future holds.” Additionally, Shunichiro Yamamoto, President of Osaka University of Economics, addressed the attendees, saying, “I am delighted that a conference enabling researchers from diverse fields to discuss topics like societal implementation and social challenges is being held at Osaka University of Economics, a university whose mission is to foster ‘emergence’ by exchanging different ideas to create new value.” Osaka Mayor Hideyuki Yokoyama also sent a message, stating, “It is deeply significant that research presentations are taking place in Osaka, where Expo 2025 will aim to tackle humanity’s shared challenges. These efforts will become invaluable assets for the future.” The keynote speech was delivered by Yuki Takemura from the Kansai Bureau of Economy, Trade, and Industry under the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, who explained the current state of digital transformation (DX) among small and medium-sized enterprises. He emphasized that promoting DX to “generate profit” is vital for an era where both the workforce and consumers are decreasing.
■ Researchers Connecting Across Disciplines
The “Outstanding Paper Award,” given to the most exceptional papers published from the previous year, was awarded to Toshihiro Tsuchihashi from Daito Bunka University and Momoto Onishi from Shimane University Graduate School (at the time of submission). The “Best Presentation Award,” presented to the best academic paper presentation during the conference, was awarded to Ryo Sumiyoshi from Hosei University. Additionally, in the short-pitch competition, Hayato Sezaki from the University of Tokyo received the top prize. A networking session followed the conference, where researchers who had presented engaged in friendly discussions and interdisciplinary exchanges in a convivial atmosphere.
■ Journal of Digital Life
https://journal-digitallife.com/
■ Introducing cutting-edge academic information in an accessible way, incorporating social trends
https://www.iza.ne.jp/digital-life/