Tokyo Hosts Employment Event for Seniors to Learn AI Skills
TOKYO - On October 6, Tokyo hosted an employment support event specifically designed for older workers, offering job consultations, interviews, and hands-on training in artificial intelligence. This initiative comes as the number of individuals aged 65 and over in the workforce has been steadily increasing, reaching a record 9.43 million employed seniors in 2025.
The Senior Job Expo, organized by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government in Bunkyo Ward, attracted a significant number of older individuals looking to explore new employment opportunities or consider returning to work. The event featured various booths where attendees could receive employment counseling and participate in recruitment interviews with potential employers.
In addition to traditional job search resources, the expo provided areas for participants to experience different types of work, including roles in customer service and food presentation. One 65-year-old woman, who had retired from an office position in June, expressed her desire to remain active in the workforce. "I've never been a full-time housewife, so I want to continue living while working," she stated after trying her hand at customer service, adding that she found it enjoyable and feasible as a potential job.
A key feature of the event was a booth dedicated to practical experience with artificial intelligence, highlighting the growing trend of AI integration in various industries. Participants had the opportunity to use the conversational AI service ChatGPT to perform computer-based tasks, such as generating images, thus familiarizing themselves with technology that is becoming increasingly relevant in modern workplaces.
Personal Stories of Job Seekers
Another participant, a 59-year-old man who has been out of work due to leg issues for the past decade, shared his search for home-based employment. Previously employed in construction, he found returning to physically demanding jobs challenging due to his condition. "If you're going to work from home, it really comes down to using a computer. I thought that in the future it might be inconvenient if I couldn't use ChatGPT," he remarked.
The Practical Implications
Tokyo officials emphasized that the AI program was not merely about introducing participants to the technology but also about demonstrating its efficient application in real-world job settings. A representative from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government noted, "Recently, there have been more opportunities to use AI at work. We want participants to learn not only the ordinary ways of using AI but also how they can use it efficiently in their jobs."
The metropolitan government aims for these courses to equip older job seekers with practical AI skills that can enhance their employability as technology continues to play a crucial role in everyday business operations. By fostering a deeper understanding of AI, the initiative seeks to bridge the gap for seniors in the evolving job market, ensuring they remain competitive and engaged in the workforce.
