#Japan #Nara #DigitalHollywood #DXInitiatives #NaraPrefecture

Digital Transformation Initiatives in Nara Prefecture

Digital Hollywood, a leading company in IT training and digital content education, has secured a contract with the Nara Prefectural Board of Education to spearhead the region's initiatives aimed at accelerating digital transformation (DX) in high schools starting from September 2025. Through the Digital Hollywood Academy, the company is set to implement various programs that enhance the digital skills of educators and students, thus fostering a new generation of digital talent.

Digital transformation is a pressing need across Japan's education sector, with 47 prefectures engaging in similar initiatives this year. In Nara, the goal is to strengthen digital talent development through targeted training programs for teachers, sharing successful case studies, and organizing contests that address real-world problems using digital tools.

Key Initiatives Under the Contract

Teacher Training Programs

Digital Hollywood plans to conduct training sessions for teachers, focusing on utilizing information science and AI. The curriculum emphasizes practical knowledge and skills essential in today’s classroom environments. Specific training topics include:

• - Leveraging Generative AI: Utilizing tools like Gemini, NotebookLM, and ChatGPT effectively in education.
• - JavaScript Programming: Hands-on workshops aimed at empowering students to create and implement their own projects.
• - Information Ethics: Cultivating a responsible digital citizenship among students.
• - Content Creation: Utilizing tools like Canva to produce digital content, such as school introduction videos.
• - Network Security: Training that connects theoretical knowledge with practical application in educational contexts.
• - Robotics: Latest developments and applications in robotics education.

The training will be delivered by experienced educators with substantive backgrounds in both academic and business sectors, ensuring that participants gain valuable insights.

Case Study Sharing and Advisory Sessions

To enhance the professional capabilities of educators, Digital Hollywood will facilitate case study sharing events where teachers can present their initiatives, experiences, and outcomes. Under expert guidance, they will explore curriculum management strategies across various subjects, improving the quality of education through shared learning and collaboration.

Student-Focused Programming

In addition to teacher training, Digital Hollywood is launching a dedicated program for students in Nara. The G’s Academy, an engineering and entrepreneurship school, will host intensive programming camps, promoting creativity and problem-solving skills among high schoolers. Students will have the opportunity to develop their own projects, present them to peers and industry professionals, and obtain valuable feedback.

Ongoing Support and Monitoring

Digital Hollywood will monitor the progress of Nara high schools in their digital initiatives. This includes assessing existing policies and providing resources such as video materials related to digital skill development. Courses will cover various topics like Python for data analysis, game programming, and digital content creation.

Outcomes Since Implementation

Since commencement in September, Digital Hollywood has gradually provided video materials related to core information courses. On October 23, a successful report-sharing event took place, showcasing initiatives from 12 out of 14 participating schools. One highlight included a presentation from Nara Minami High School, which shared their ongoing projects. Notably, Professor Hiroyuki Hoshino from Digital Hollywood University's lecture addressed the integration of AI in educational methodologies.

The first teacher training session on Generative AI was held on October 30, receiving positive feedback from attendees, affirming the relevance and practicality of the new tools introduced. Upcoming workshops will focus on creating engaging and effective learning experiences using JavaScript, scheduled for November 7.

Furthermore, students will engage in a special event at the Nara Convention Center on December 24-25, with another contest to be hosted in January at El Toppia Nara.

Nara Prefecture’s Commitment to Digital Education

The Nara Prefectural Board of Education has prioritized cultivating digital competencies among students and fostering educators' skills in ICT applications. By harnessing Digital Hollywood's expertise, Nara aims to significantly enhance the quality of education and prepare students for future challenges in a digitally-driven world. This strategic partnership exemplifies a robust commitment to advancing education through innovative practices.

For more information on initiatives in Nara, please visit the Digital Hollywood Academy's official site.