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We continuously accumulate new experiences through various environments and interactions with society, from childhood play to school education and workplace relationships. These experiences become part of our learning, which ultimately shapes our personality and values. In this way, learning is a vital element in living a life true to ourselves. With the advancement of AI technology, acquiring knowledge has become easier, and the methods and value of learning are changing rapidly. In this panel discussion, we will explore why we learn, what it means to live vibrant lives while honoring our individuality, and what learning might look like in 2050. We invite everyone to join us in this meaningful reflection.

【Reflection】
The dialogue programme “Why Do We Learn? – Finding the Essence of Learning Through Education and Play” brought together seven young leaders and experts to explore the relationship between learning and play, as well as the future of learning in 2050. Several important insights and effects emerged from this session.
Firstly, it became clear that “learning” and “play” are not opposing concepts but rather deeply interconnected. Many participants pointed out that play often involves natural learning processes, while learning accompanied by joy, curiosity, or emotional engagement can feel very much like play. This perspective highlights the importance of integrating “fun” and “curiosity” into the design of educational systems and training programmes.
Secondly, the importance of intrinsic motivation was repeatedly emphasised. The greatest growth occurs when learning is driven not by external pressure but by one’s own interests and curiosity. Testimonies from participants—such as experiences in study abroad programmes, art-based workshops, and cross-cultural exchange through dance—illustrated how the fusion of learning and play accelerates personal growth and discovery.
Thirdly, the session highlighted the link between learning/play and the understanding of diversity. Through stories and reflections, it was emphasised that learning and play are powerful tools for broadening perspectives, fostering empathy, and recognising diverse values. In an age where AI has made access to information easier than ever, the value of learning increasingly lies not in the accumulation of knowledge itself, but in how it is applied and connected to one’s life and society.
Through discussion, a cycle that connects motivation to personal growth is discovered. At first, both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation arise from our personal likes and dislikes, or from experiences of being praised by others. These motivations nurture the courage to take a step beyond where we are now and to keep trying through trial and error. As a result, we become able to notice not only the events that align with our goals but also unexpected ones, and to accept them with a positive attitude. When we begin to find new discoveries in our everyday experiences, these discoveries accumulate as learning, gradually nurturing diverse personalities and values within each individual.
What is particularly important is the emotional space to try things that are not directly linked to our goals, and the sensitivity to the insights that emerge from them. In our discussion, we used the example of going to a sweet shop. If you take a detour on the way, you might not reach the shop or buy any sweets. Yet, instead, you might see a rainbow or come across a cat. Having the freedom to take such a detour — and the ability to notice and integrate those unexpected moments into your own experience — helps us move between play and learning, cultivating a richer variety of perspectives and individuality.
After the programme, participants shared reflections such as: “I realised that learning and play, although they may seem distant, are actually quite closely connected.”; “I was surprised to realise that the boundaries between learning and play can blur and overlap.”; “I realised that valuing my intrinsic motivations is, in fact, a way of valuing myself.”; “I realised that there's no need to rush, and that sometimes taking a detour can lead to valuable insights.” These responses clearly showed that the programme encouraged a shift in how participants perceive learning and play.
The programme successfully encouraged participants to rethink the essence of learning and inspired them to carry fresh perspectives back to their own communities and workplaces. The cross-disciplinary exchange reinforced the idea that learning and play form a foundation for co-creation in future societies.


【Post EXPO Initiatives】
Following the rich discussions of this programme, the organisers and speakers identified several directions for post-Expo initiatives.

Firstly, they aim to develop and expand new educational programmes that integrate learning and play. Building upon methods such as graphic recording, inquiry-based learning, and art-centred workshops, the organisers plan to promote educational practices that move beyond rote memorisation towards approaches that prioritise creativity, emotional engagement, and curiosity.

Secondly, they plan to strengthen networks that connect diverse communities. Inspired by the theme of “learning through global connections,” they intend to create ongoing exchange events and international collaborative projects involving schools, NPOs, and companies. Leveraging digital technology and short-term study abroad opportunities, the initiative seeks to expand access to learning across geographic and socioeconomic boundaries.

Thirdly, they recognised the importance of building a social foundation that supports diverse forms of learning. By amplifying the voices of youth and educators, they aim to link learning with local community development and solutions to social challenges. Examples include supporting inquiry-based programmes in which high school and university students design and manage their own projects, thereby fostering locally rooted cycles of learning.

Through these initiatives, the organisers and participants share a common vision of expanding the circle of co-creation beyond the Expo and working towards a society where education and play cultivate the capacity for individuals to live authentically and vibrantly in 2050.


*Part or all of this report was generated by AI.