A Unique VR Theater Program Developed to Experience Global Living Conditions

Groundbreaking Collaboration for a VR Theater Experience

In a remarkable collaboration, the NPO Cross Fields, alongside Osaka University's Social Solution Initiative (SSI) and the Inochi Meeting, has developed an innovative VR theater program. Targeting the Osaka University Nakanoshima Center, this program is designed to immerse participants in the living conditions across the globe, providing a unique glimpse into various cultures and societal challenges through advanced technology.

The initiative aligns with Osaka University SSI's vision of fostering a society that values life and ensures every individual shines. By leveraging VR technology, the program aims to offer a transformative experience that helps attendees personalize social issues, making them relatable and encouraging proactive problem-solving.

The Purpose of the VR Program

The newly established program coincides with the much-anticipated opening of the Osaka-Kansai Expo, embodying the global vision of “A Future Society Where Lives Shine.” The grand unveiling will take place during a special talk event, titled "Designing a Future Society by Engaging with Social Issues through VR Experiences,” set for May 15, 2025, at the Nakanoshima Center. The event features key speakers, including Professor Takuo Dome of Osaka University SSI, and Daichi Okuma, the Executive Director of Cross Fields, who will delve into the importance of personalizing social issues. Participants can also enjoy a hands-on VR experience following the discussions.

Enhancing Empathy through 360-Degree Experiences

Since its establishment in 2020, Cross Fields has been committed to empowering individuals to engage with social issues more personally. By employing immersive 360-degree video content, they have successfully delivered programs educating over 20,000 people about various pressing global challenges, including poverty in Cambodia and the circular economy.

With the latest VR theater program, audiences can engage with realistic depictions of life in Cambodia, Tanzania, and both urban and rural India. These experiences allow participants to feel as though they are genuinely present in those locales, thus deepening their understanding of diverse lifestyles.

Importantly, students from Osaka University have contributed significantly to the program’s development. Their input ensures that the narratives presented are both educational and culturally sensitive, with dual-language commentaries offered in Japanese and English, enriching the viewer's comprehension.

The Role of the Inochi Meeting and the Nakanoshima Center

At the heart of this initiative lies the newly opened Inochi Empathy Plaza on the fifth floor of the Nakanoshima Center. This space aims to facilitate discussions around crucial topics like the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), effectively promoting a future where every life is cherished and valued. Designed to be a “place of feeling,” this center is equipped to project 360-degree videos on walls and floors, creating an immersive VR theater set to officially open in 2024.

Initiative Against Social Challenges

The collaboration among Cross Fields, Osaka University SSI, and the Inochi Meeting is pivotal as it fosters critical dialogue among participants, addressing how individuals can contribute to global movements around societal issues. In a world that often feels disconnected, these efforts aim to unite various stakeholders, from academia to corporations and civil society, reinforcing the importance of community in tackling challenges.

This project is not just about technology but is a movement towards a more empathetic society. The discussions at the event are expected to evoke reflections on what it means to be part of this evolving narrative about life and society. By experiencing and understanding the complexities of global living conditions, attendees can envision their roles in crafting a better future.

Event Details and Participation

Event Title: Designing a Future Society by Engaging with Social Issues through VR Experiences
Date: May 15, 2025, from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
Location: 5th Floor of the Osaka University Nakanoshima Center, Inochi Empathy Plaza.
Cost: Free of charge, limited to approximately 50 participants.
Structure: The evening begins with an opening address, followed by talks from experts, and a Q&A session, culminating in a VR experience session.

Those interested in participating are encouraged to register via the link provided immediately for a profound glimpse into global living through an innovative lens.

This multifaceted approach to social issues offers an outstanding blueprint for future projects, connecting esteemed organizations and individuals devoted to making a meaningful difference, aligning beautifully within the broader spectrum of the upcoming Osaka-Kansai Expo and beyond.