Championing Fisheries and Maritime Transparency:

My Journey at METIS ALC 2026

ALC participation: June 10-June 19, 2026

Marine Life Science Program, Genome Science Laboratory

D.S

As an MEXT scholarship recipient and a member of the integrated WISE Marine AI program at TUMSAT, my academic focus centers on leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) in the aquaculture sector. Specifically, my research aims to develop real-time, highly accurate monitoring solutions for shrimp diseases. Given that the future of aquaculture hinges heavily on precision technology, expanding my global perspective on AI applicatios in marine sciences is paramount. My profound desire to explore these cutting-edge methodologies was the driving force behind my applicaion for the METIS Active Learning Course (ALC) 2026.

Participating in ALC 2026 was an extraordinary experience that allowed me to learn directly from leading experts representing various Nordic universities, each bringing diverse and remarkable scientific backgrounds. Among the stellar lecturers, I was particularly captivated by Dr. Lauriane Ribas's presentation on AI-driven marine biodiversity monitoring, as the advanced methodologies she discussed closely align with my own research framework. Furthermore, Prof. Kazumasa Oguri's lecture on Deep-Sea Research Exploration offered profound new perspectives on pushing the boundaries of sensor technology in extreme environments.

The course seamlessly utilized Active Learning methods to cultivate a highly dynamic classroom. Rather than being passive listeners, we engaged in vibrant, two-way discussions with the lecturers. Each session featured quizzes to reinforce our real-time comprehension. Moreover, our critical thinking skills were put to the test during small-group discussions with representatives from several Nordic universities. This collaborative environment allowed us to gain valuable insights into their respective research angles and ongoing projects, while simultaneously building meaningful international friendships.

　 A standout highlight of the program was the lecturers'exceptional support and approachability. Both during and after classes, they were fully open to direct consultations, generously offering guidance on our individual research challenges. They provided actionable advice on AI design, data analysis workflows, and even recommended specific software and coding tools best suited for our data processing needs.

For the final program milestone, we were challenged to formulate a comprehensive research and project design. Drawing inspiration from the urgent need for global ocean data accessibility, I proposed an integrated AI ecosystem combining real-time satellite imagery, Edge ML, and physical sensor logs to bridge critical information gaps in conventional maritime monitoring.

I am incredibly honored that the innovation and dedication poured into this presentation earned me the "Best Presenter Award at ALC 2026". This achievement is wholeheartedly dedicated to my exceptional supervisory team: Assoc. Prof. Keiichiro Koiwai, Prof. Ikuo Hirono, and Prof. Hidehiro Kondo, as well as my peers at the TUMSAT Genome Science Laboratory, for their unwavering support.

METIS ALC 2026 has been a powerful catalyst for my personal and professional growth. I return to my laboratory equipped with full confidence, refined international science communication skills, and a priceless global network. This journey truly underscored a vital truth: "Technolgy provides the transparence; our collective action secures the environment." METIS ALC was not merely a short course but a transformative stepping stone that prepared me to drive meaningful change in global aquaculture and marine sustainability.

A scene from my presentation