Keynote by Prof Chihiro Watanabe at the 12th International Symposium to be held in Finland

Keynote by Prof. Chihiro Watanabe
Title: Generative AI-Driven Innovation and Co-Evolutionary Development for Decarbonization: A Japan–India–Global South Model
Event: 12th International Symposium on Creative Education
Date: May 2025
Venue: LUT University, Lahti, Finland

🧠 About the Presentation
In his keynote address, Professor Chihiro Watanabe presents a groundbreaking vision for global decarbonization and sustainable innovation using a generative AI-driven co-evolutionary model. His presentation explores the fusion of Japan's advanced manufacturing capabilities with India's rapidly expanding digital transformation ecosystem (DX), proposing a trilateral model that includes the Global South—particularly regions in Africa and Asia.

Using real-world examples like Daikin’s manufacturing partnership in India and Amazon Web Services’ AI/ML model, Prof. Watanabe demonstrates how mutual learning and innovation across borders can accelerate both economic development and climate action. A core theme is the transformation of “Jugaad”, India's traditional frugal innovation system, into a global standard—showcasing how developing economies can offer scalable solutions to complex global challenges.

🌍 Why This Presentation is Important
Addresses the Climate Crisis: By aligning industrial collaboration with decarbonization goals, the model offers a path to mitigate climate risks across vulnerable regions.

Promotes Equitable Innovation: The focus on the Global South brings attention to how digital transformation can unlock dormant resources and talent in emerging economies.

Connects Policy with Practice: Through case studies and economic data, the talk provides practical insights for governments, corporations, and educators.

Highlights Leapfrogging Potential: The analysis of 39 countries reveals how smartphone and internet adoption can fast-track growth in underdeveloped areas.

Supports Skill Development: Emphasizing software and AI skills, Prof. Watanabe advocates for bridging skill gaps through Indo-Japan collaborations and education policy reforms.

📊 Key Themes and Topics Covered
Co-evolutionary innovation using AI and cloud-based systems (AWS model)

Japan-India technology partnerships (e.g., Daikin and TCS)

Jugaad as a universal innovation model

Economic leapfrogging through digitalization

Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme insights

Policy recommendations for Skill India and climate action

Data analytics on GDP growth and digital adoption across 39 countries

Role of education and skill-building in Industry 5.0

👨‍🏫 About Prof. Chihiro Watanabe
Chihiro Watanabe is Professor Emeritus at Tokyo Institute of Technology and a Guest Senior Research Scholar at the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA), Austria. He also serves as Director of the Forum of X-Center Japan (FoXc-J). A globally recognized expert in innovation systems, digital economy, and technology policy, Prof. Watanabe’s work focuses on the intersection of technology management, industrial transformation, and sustainable development. His research has shaped global understanding of AI-driven innovation and coevolution across national and sectoral boundaries.