Key Facts
• November 29, 2025: Forest Symposium held in Wakayama, Japan.
• Organized by Wakayama Prefecture, Forest Culture Association, and others.
• Approximately 200 participants attended the event.
• Naoki Ogi delivered a keynote titled “The Appeal of Nature Education in the AI Era.”
• Ogi emphasized the importance of nature-based education for boosting self-esteem in children.
• Panel discussion focused on sustaining children’s interest in nature and forests.
• Wakayama Prefecture’s pioneering forest education efforts were highlighted.
• Professor Yumi Oura stressed nurturing curiosity and patience in children.
Summary
On November 29, 2025, a Forest Symposium was held in Wakayama, Japan, as a pre-event for the upcoming National Tree-Cultivation Festival. Approximately 200 attendees gathered at the Wakayama Prefectural Cultural Hall to discuss the future of forest education. Education critic Naoki Ogi delivered a keynote lecture titled “The Appeal of Nature Education in the AI Era,” emphasizing the role of nature-based experiences in fostering self-esteem and resilience in children. A panel discussion followed, where educators and forestry experts exchanged ideas on maintaining children’s interest in nature. Wakayama’s leadership in forest education was highlighted, with Professor Yumi Oura concluding the event by advocating for nurturing curiosity and patience in children. The symposium underscored the critical role of nature in education and personal development.
