Kumamoto Hosts Its First Semiconductor Exhibition, Inviting High School Students

On February 28, Kumamoto Prefecture hosted its first large-scale semiconductor exhibition in Mashiki. The world's largest contract manufacturer of semiconductors, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), opened a new factory in the prefecture on February 24. 

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The event attracted about 270 companies and organizations, representing both local and international interests. Additionally, the exhibition invited over 2,000 local high school students, aiming to cultivate a future workforce for growing semiconductor-related sectors.

Future Workforce Development

The expo, titled Kumamoto Industrial Revitalization Expo, was organized by the prefectural government. Notable participants included Japan Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing (JASM), a subsidiary of TSMC operating the factory in Kumamoto, as well as Sony Group Corporation and several Taiwanese companies.

The event served as a platform for business negotiations for small and medium-sized enterprises. It also featured informative booths for students, all designed to highlight the industry's appeal and opportunities. It is estimated that around 10,000 visitors attended in total, with 20% being high school students.

Ren Fujimoto, a 17-year-old student at Aso Chuo High School, tried out an autonomous driving simulator at Sony Group's booth. "Semiconductors will play an increasingly vital role in the future and can make significant contributions globally," he said enthusiastically. "I intend to pursue a career in the semiconductor industry."

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(Read the article in Japanese.) 

Author: The Sankei Shimbun