Robophilosophy 2026 opened on August 11 at University College Dublin (UCD) in Dublin, Ireland. Running through August 14 under the theme „Connected Futures – Nature, Robots, and Society“, the conference brings together researchers from across disciplines to explore how robotics and artificial intelligence are reshaping society and our relationship with the natural world. A highlight of the second day was the keynote by Dr. Hideki Kajima of Toyota Motor Europe, introduced with an opening address by H.E. Ambassador Manabu Miyagawa, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland and former Ambassador of Japan to Denmark. Dr. Kajima presented practical examples of robotics and AI research at Toyota, including applications in healthcare, construction, and manufacturing, as well as the use of advanced simulation technologies. At the heart of these efforts is a human-centered approach that goes beyond efficiency, focusing on worker safety, reducing physical and cognitive burdens, and ensuring long-term operational sustainability. His keynote emphasized that robots and AI should not simply be understood as tools, but as integral parts of broader social systems. Against the backdrop of rapidly advancing AI, Dr. Kajima also addressed the responsibilities and opportunities facing industry and the importance of aligning technological innovation with human values and societal well-being. With a background in robot motion control and extensive experience developing Toyota’s Human Support Robot and other robotic systems, Dr. Kajima now leads the planning and promotion of advanced research strategies at Toyota Motor Europe. His keynote was supported by the UCD College of Social Sciences and Law, the UCD Geary Institute for Public Policy, the UCD Centre for Japanese Studies, the Embassy of Japan to Ireland, and the UCD School of Computer Science.

Fig.: Dr. Hideki Kajima after his talk (on the left)