On Saturday, June 7, Grade 9 students took part in a special lecture as part of their preliminary learning for the upcoming Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025. The session was held during the Saturday Enrichment Program and featured guest speaker Mr. Akihiro Hori from “SyncMOF,” a permanent exhibition located on the second floor of the Osaka Healthcare Pavilion.

Mr. Hori delivered a compelling and accessible presentation on the overall vision of the Expo and the innovative MOF (Metal Organic Framework) technology used for CO₂ capture. Beyond the technical aspects, he also shared powerful personal insights on the importance of “living authentically” and how unexpected encounters and opportunities can shape one's life journey.

The themes of the lecture resonated deeply with the students’ ongoing learning in TOK Ethics and QUEST inquiry programs, offering a meaningful opportunity to reflect on their own future paths and learning goals. This group of students, now in their third year, had previously organized the “RitsUji EXPO” during their first year at school, which explored the theme of “Life 30 Years from Now.” In the lecture, students were intrigued to discover how the Expo also envisions the world 25 years into the future, with new technologies such as MOF potentially transforming substances like hydrogen, ammonia, and even carbon dioxide into key players in the next-generation energy society.

Especially memorable was the idea that carbon dioxide, once viewed as a “villain” in the context of climate change, might be reimagined as a “hero” through future innovations. This shift in perspective—from negative to positive—left a strong impression on students and encouraged them to embrace new ways of thinking about the future.

Through this lecture, students not only developed a greater sense of anticipation for the Expo but also gained inspiration to approach their own futures with optimism and curiosity. It was a truly impactful and valuable learning experience.