In a significant move towards societal transformation, Science Tokyo has launched the Visionary Initiatives (VIs), a comprehensive research framework designed to integrate diverse disciplines. Commencing in the 2025 academic year, this initiative aims to co-create new value with society while advancing both scientific knowledge and human wellbeing. The current focus encompasses six distinct VIs, each exploring shared visions that align with the principles of a “Better Life,” “Better Society,” and “Better Planet.”
Connecting Cyberspace and Physical Reality
Leading this effort is Professor Kei Sakaguchi from the School of Engineering, who serves as Program Director for the VI dedicated to innovative life through cyber-physical spaces. In a recent discussion, he emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between cyberspace and the physical world, highlighting how advancements in science and technology can foster a more vibrant society. Professor Sakaguchi outlined a roadmap for achieving this integration, which he believes will yield substantial benefits.
According to Professor Sakaguchi, the impact of research on society can vary significantly depending on the field and its stage of development. While the benefits of basic research may not be immediately visible, applied fields such as telecommunications can showcase tangible outcomes. “Researchers in my field are constantly considering practical applications, and they often witness direct results from their work,” he noted.
Professor Sakaguchi has been instrumental in designing communication infrastructure that connects cyberspace—encompassing the internet and telecommunications networks. He expressed confidence that his contributions have already begun to enhance societal connectivity, particularly through the rollout of 5G technology. “People may feel they are experiencing all the advantages of 5G,” he said, “but we have yet to fully unlock its potential.”
While 5G enables nearly instantaneous live streaming on smartphones, Professor Sakaguchi pointed out that the primary interface remains the smartphone itself. Despite advancements in telecommunications performance, the development of applications and services that fully exploit 5G’s capabilities to meet societal needs is still in its infancy. “We have yet to create the ‘outlets’ for 5G that will truly change how society interacts with technology,” he explained.
Future Directions for Technological Integration
As the Visionary Initiatives progress, Professor Sakaguchi envisions a future where technology and society are more closely intertwined. The goal is to not only create more efficient communication systems but also to develop innovative applications that address pressing societal challenges. This vision aligns with the broader objectives of the VIs, which seek to enhance quality of life and promote sustainability.
In summary, the launch of the Visionary Initiatives by Science Tokyo marks a pivotal step towards integrating advanced technology in ways that can reshape societal structures. By focusing on the connection between cyberspace and the physical world, researchers like Professor Sakaguchi hope to pave the way for a more connected, efficient, and meaningful future. The ongoing development of 5G technology, in particular, holds promise for transforming everyday life, provided that the necessary applications can be developed to harness its full potential.
