Japan is currently grappling with a serious demographic crisis, facing both declining birth rates and an aging population. This isn't just a concern for future growth; it's already causing severe labor shortages across numerous industries.
However, Mr. Suzuki, Secretary-General of the Japan Digital Transport Business Association, points out a unique solution emerging from the construction sector, which is notoriously short-staffed and often stigmatized by the "3K" image (kitsui, kitanai, kiken – tough, dirty, dangerous). They've started using remote-controlled excavators and, surprisingly, are partnering with "esports" students for this innovative industry-academia collaboration.
You might do a double-take seeing an excavator on a construction site with no one in the driver's seat. The real operators? Four high school students from "KONAMI Esports Academy," tucked away in a makeshift hut nearby, controlling the heavy machinery remotely.
"Construction and esports used to be worlds apart," says Mr. Umemura, principal of KONAMI Esports Academy. "But if this collaboration can open up more diverse career paths for our students, why not embrace it?" And just like that, the esports academy and the construction industry clicked, launching this groundbreaking project.
These are just high schoolers, mind you, but armed with two screens and four joysticks, they're leveraging their existing esports knowledge to master complex controls. Then, it's straight into real-world action!
Initially, there was a bit of fumbling, but thanks to their finely honed joystick skills from gaming, intense focus, and keen sense of touch, it wasn't long before they were maneuvering the excavators like pros.
Unsurprisingly, the esports students involved are finding it a blast. "Usually, I just watch excavators move, but operating one myself? Way harder than it looks!" one exclaimed. "But once you get the hang of it, it's super fun! I want to try it again!" Another added, "I've always been interested in remote control technology. This could really help people who can't physically be on-site right now."
This unexpected cross-industry collaboration clearly shows how diverse fields can spark innovative solutions. For a labor-strapped industry like construction, embracing remote operation might just be the game-changer needed to modernize on-site work and attract a new generation of talent.
via： TBS NEWS DIG