December 25, 2024
On Friday, December 13, 2024, the Keio Leading-edge Laboratory of Science and Technology (KLL) held KEIO TECHNO-MALL 2024 at the Tokyo International Forum.
KEIO TECHNO-MALL is an event that widely disseminates the research achievements of Keio University's Faculty of Science and Technology and Graduate School of Science and Technology, providing a venue for encounters that can lead to industry-government-academia collaboration. This 25th iteration was attended by approximately 1,500 people, the largest number since the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the theme "The Origin of jitsugaku (science)—A Bridge to a Diverse Future," the event featured 109 immersive booth and panel exhibits centered on actual equipment and demonstrations. With exhibits from the School of Medicine, the Faculty of Environment and Information Studies, the Faculty of Nursing and Medical Care, and the Graduate School of Media Design (KMD), we were able to introduce research from a wide range of fields, not limited to science and technology. Throughout the venue, enthusiastic exchanges and discussions unfolded, creating a palpable sense of industry-academia collaboration.
In addition to the exhibits, a total of 12 events, including symposiums and short presentations, were held. This year, we aimed for an open space without walls surrounding the event area, allowing attendees to join and listen freely at any time. At one of the main events, "Creation of Knowledge: Research and Faculty Innovation by Keio University-NEC," presentations on climate change research and consortium case studies were given, drawing a standing-room-only crowd. The short presentation corner featured introductions to the latest research findings by researchers and presentations by healthcare startups.
Additionally, a new event for female junior and senior high school students was held, titled "Introduction to Keio University's KeiDGs* and Research Activities." It included topics on career development by female researchers, attracting the interest of the students and their guardians. This year, many junior and senior high school students attended, in addition to those participating in this specific event. Scenes of researchers from Keio University and the students—future researchers themselves—engaging in discussions and direct interaction were seen throughout the venue. We felt that KEIO TECHNO-MALL is not only for those currently aiming to promote industry-government-academia collaboration but is also a venue for encounters that foster the next generation of collaboration and innovation.
(*KeiDGs…Keio Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Goals: A modern interpretation of the words of Yukichi Fukuzawa by the Keio University Faculty of Science and Technology and Graduate School of Science and Technology, which defines diversity, equity, and inclusion as diversity, equality and fairness, and freedom in science-based education and research.)
Next year's event is scheduled to be held on Friday, December 12, 2025, at the Tokyo International Forum. KLL will continue to promote its mission of industry-government-academia collaboration, valuing the connections made at KEIO TECHNO-MALL.