[Activity Report] Expanding Possibilities with Assistive Devices and ICT – Employment Initiatives -

Considering Employment Support with Case Studies

The seminar "Expanding Possibilities with Assistive Devices and ICT" was held at Headquater of Pacific Supply and Online on April 19th, 2025. As with previous years, the event was held around March, but on this occasion, we featured multiple case studies from actual workplaces. First, we addressed the question, ‘What are the post-graduation pathways for 18-year-olds graduating from special needs high schools?’ We explained the choices of pathways made by students who graduated from the special needs class in high school, categorized by type of disability. After that, we presented two case studies.

Presentation１ - What are the post-graduation pathways for 18-year-olds graduating from special needs high schools? -

After graduation from special needs class in high school, what pathways are the students expected, and what challenges do they encounter?

Case Study 1 - Kana (Pseudonym), who has Selective Mutism and Work at a Workshop -

We described how she communicated and worked at the workplace using a VOCA and how the VOCA contributed to her growth.

ー Please see here for full article of her case study－

Case Study 2 - Employment Support at Kawamura Gishi -

Using the keyword "To bring out the best in each person", we explained the types of support provided to employees working on-site. This includes an overview of production process management in the manufacturing department, as well as identifying the characteristics of employees with disabilities and introducing individualized support methods and approaches.

We wrapped up the seminar after a short Q&A session following the case study presentation.

After the seminar, participants at the venue participated in a tour of our manufacturing factory. They had the opportunity to observe jigs, tools, and work instructions used in the actual workplace. Additionally, in our historical gallery, they viewed a display of prosthetic legs called 'Onshi no Gisoku,' which were bestowed by the former Imperial family to war-injured individuals following World War II.

After the seminar

Teachers from special needs schools and professionals involved in employment support participated in the event. Through the many questions they asked, we were reminded that transitioning into society at age 18 is indeed a major turning point in life. Those who toured the company shared their impressions, saying things like, "It was really enjoyable!" and "I found many aspects both informative and interesting." These comments reinforced our belief that allowing visitors to see the actual work environment—not just hearing explanations—deepens their understanding even further.