On September 6, 2024, Fukuoka Prefecture held an observation event for the “Demonstration of Employment for Individuals with Disabilities Using Avatar Robots.”
The aim of this project is to assist individuals with disabilities who have difficulty leaving their place of residence to remotely operate an avatar robot in order to engage in work. It also aims to verify the effectiveness of the tasks, work hours, and the necessary support.
Since September 2, directional guidance service by the avatar robots has been available to station users at JR Ticket Office (Midori-no-madoguchi) at JR Yoshizuka Station.

• The details of the project are as follows:
  Duration: September 2 (Monday) to November 29 (Friday), 2024 (excluding weekends and national holidays)
  Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  Location: JR Yoshizuka Station, JR Ticket Office (13-28 Yoshizuka Honmachi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka City)
  Participants: Individuals with disabilities who have difficulty leaving their residence (approx. 10 people)
  Tasks: Providing directions, etc.
  Verification items: The effectiveness of the project will be assessed through interviews with businesses and operators on the following points:
  – Is it possible to continue working for more than 10 hours per week?
  – What challenges are faced in the tasks being performed?
  – Are there any burdens on the operators or the necessary supports?
  – What are the effects of utilizing avatar robots?

The Governor of Fukuoka Prefecture attended the event and actually experienced conversation with the avatar robot, asking questions about directions to Kyushu University Hospital as well as aspirations for work in the employment demonstration.
For more details, please visit the following site:
https://fukuoka-syurojisyo.jp/

Edited and published by the Japanese Society for Rehabilitation of Persons with Disabilities.

Published on September 20th, 2024.