2017.03.14
A symposium was held to commemorate Professor Emeritus Hideo Aiso, the first Dean of the Faculty of Environment and Information Studies, and Dr. John L. Hennessy, President Emeritus of Stanford University, winning the 2016 Okawa Prize. Titled "The Evolution of Computing and the Role of Research Universities," the event featured special commemorative lectures and a panel discussion.
Professor Emeritus Aiso gave a lecture titled "Experiences in Research and Education in Computer Science-Related Fields: From Computer Architecture Research to University Reform." He spoke about numerous lessons learned, including the importance in education of the "fresh wonder of the world of knowledge" and the "joy of knowing," based on his experiences as a university student and at the University of Illinois; lessons from research and development on numerous computer architectures, including Japan's first practical transistor computer; and lessons from his research, education, and university reform at Keio University, such as "respecting and nurturing students' individuality" and "developing problem-finding and problem-solving skills."
In the second part, a panel discussion on "The Evolution of Computing and the Role of Research Universities" was held, moderated by Professor Hideyuki Tokuda of the Faculty of Environment and Information Studies. The panel featured Dr. Hennessy, who had earlier lectured on "The End of the Road for General Purpose Processors and the Future of Computing." Discussions covered the importance of elements that AI still lacks and only humans possess, such as creativity and ethics, amidst the growing attention and expected development of AI technology; the need for a paradigm shift in both universities and corporations for an era of vertical integration in the ICT-related industry, including AI; the importance of university education and research that nurtures individuality and recognizes diversity; and the role of research universities as the forefront of the innovation ecosystem. Finally, as a "take-home message," the two speakers shared their expectations for the hard work of energetic young people and spoke about the spirit of "jiga sakko" (creating the new from oneself), urging attendees to be pioneers, before the symposium concluded.
The venue was filled to capacity with over 400 participants who listened intently, and there was an active exchange of questions and opinions from the floor.
The Okawa Prize is an international award sponsored by the Okawa Foundation for Information and Telecommunications. It aims to recognize and honor individuals who have made outstanding social contributions in research, technological development, and business in the information and telecommunications fields, and to contribute to the further development and promotion of these fields. It has been awarded since fiscal 1992, with this year marking the 25th time.
Professor Emeritus Hideo Aiso received the 2016 Okawa Prize for being "a pioneer in the research and development of computer systems, making social contributions toward the development of the computer-related industry, pioneering interdisciplinary fields based on informatics, and nurturing many talented individuals."
Dr. John L. Hennessy received the same award in recognition of his "pioneering research on computer architecture, including the RISC processor, and his outstanding contributions as a leader in higher education."
Photo: Satoru Inoue
Source: General Affairs (Public Relations), Shonan Fujisawa Campus (SFC) Office