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Bridging the AI Literacy Gap with 'AI Campus'

In a world where generative AI is transforming industries, the skills needed to harness its power are increasingly essential for business professionals. However, a significant gap exists in the ability to leverage these technologies effectively, particularly for the so-called 'AI literacy gap generation'. Recognizing this urgent need, SAMURAI, a Tokyo-based IT education and career support company, has launched a new service called 'AI Campus'. This initiative is designed to train business professionals in practical AI skills, specifically focusing on generative AI, to equip them for the demands of modern workplaces.

The Background: The Emergence of the AI Literacy Gap Generation

The rapid evolution of generative AI has greatly boosted productivity in the workplace. Nevertheless, this advancement has also led to an increasing divide between those who can utilize AI effectively and those who cannot. According to a survey by the OECD set to be released in 2024, the percentage of AI users who received training from their companies varies significantly across age groups: approximately 37% for individuals aged 16 to 34, 33% for those aged 35 to 49, and only 25% for those aged 50 and older. This disparity highlights the existence of a segment of the workforce that has not had adequate opportunities to gain practical experience in generative AI and digital skills. This phenomenon has become a pressing social issue, necessitating immediate attention.

AI Campus was created as a community that directly addresses these challenges, providing a safe and engaging environment for learning practical skills that are directly applicable to workplace scenarios.

What is AI Campus? An Accessible Learning Community for Generative AI

AI Campus has been designed to alleviate the anxieties and uncertainties that many potential learners have. It is aimed at individuals who are interested in AI but do not know where to begin. By melding generative AI education with practical IT skills, the community aims to make learning accessible and relevant. The program includes several standout features:

Daily Learning Resources

• - Generative AI Materials: Users can access a variety of video tutorials and practice content focused on generative AI tools like ChatGPT on a 24/7 basis.

Weekly Starter Workshops

• - Participants will engage in weekly AI starter training sessions that cover essential skills for utilizing tools like ChatGPT, Gamma, Dify, and Google Apps Script (GAS).

Comprehensive Supplementary Skill Materials

• - In addition to AI-specific content, AI Campus offers resources on related skills such as Excel automation, web fundamentals, and introductory Python programming, ensuring a holistic education experience.

Trend Seminars Led by Active Engineers

• - Stay updated on the latest AI tools through seminars led by current industry professionals who share practical applications and insights.

Community Events

• - The 'Yorimichi Club' program promotes collaboration and networking among participants, aimed at reducing feelings of isolation and fostering companionship in the learning journey.

Taking the First Step: Free Online Seminars

Is the rapid advancement of AI leaving you feeling left behind? If you are unsure about where to begin, AI Campus offers free online seminars every week tailored for beginners. These sessions provide gentle explanations ranging from the basics of generative AI to practical applications in the workplace, enabling participants to take that crucial first step toward developing their AI capabilities.

Learn more and sign up for a seminar here.

Please note that attendance at these seminars is required for participation in AI Campus. Details on how to join and associated costs will be discussed during the seminar.

The Vision for AI Campus: Learning Without Age or Experience Barriers

According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, Japan's generative AI system market is projected to reach 680 billion yen in 2023 and to burgeon to 2.5 trillion yen by 2028. This growth, coupled with government initiatives for DX advancement and rising demand for reskilling among older adults, underscores the accelerating investment in education particularly aimed at middle-aged and senior individuals. AI Campus aims to provide a sustainable learning framework that can adapt to the fast-paced changes of our era and to support individuals in taking proactive steps without letting age or experience be an excuse.

Principal of AI Campus, Shigeki Kaneda