‘AI-FLIP’ CELEBRATES SENIOR LEARNERS' ACHIEVEMENT IN JAPANESE LANGUAGE AND AI

Nine senior learners, aged between 55 and 71, celebrated the successful completion of the AI and Foreign Language Intergenerational Programme (AI-FLIP) 2026 in a graduation ceremony held at the Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) School of Languages, Literacies and Translation (SoLLaT) recently.

'AI-FLIP' was organised by SoLLaT in collaboration with SITI (Seniors Inspiring Through Involvement) Network and led by SoLLaT Senior Lecturer and Coordinator of the Artificial Intelligence in Language and Translation Research Unit, Dr. Boh Phaik Ean.

Guided by the tagline "Flip the Script on Ageing", the programme aimed to empower senior citizens through lifelong learning, at the same time introducing them to the Japanese language, culture, and artificial intelligence tools that would support language learning.

The four-month long programme was conducted from May to August 2026 through eight interactive sessions. Participants learned Japanese daily conversation, numbers and counting, action words used in daily life, descriptive words and expressions, and ways to learn Japanese with AI tools. The programme also offered practical cultural experiences, including wearing Yukata, creating Kirigami, making sushi, and participating in an Ikebana workshop.

The first graduating cohort included SITI Network Founder and Managing Director Chen Li Li. In her speech, Madam Chen highlighted the value of purpose, social connection, and lifelong learning in supporting well-being in later life.

"Research has shown that having purpose, staying socially connected and continuing to learn can contribute to healthier and more fulfilling later years. And I believe one of the greatest gifts we can give our children as we grow older is to remain healthy, happy and independent for as long as possible," she said.

The graduates' participation demonstrated that age does not limit their capacity to acquire new skills, explore emerging technologies, and remain actively involved in society.

The ceremony was officiated by USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Industry and Community Network (BJIM), Professor Dato' Dr. Azlan Amran. In his address, he encouraged the graduates to continue learning, share their knowledge, and contribute to their communities.

Also present were SoLLaT Deputy Dean for Academic, Career and International Affairs, Azril Ali; invited Japanese teachers from SITI Network; members of the USM teaching and training team and the graduates' family members.

The USM teaching and training team included Kelana Ahmad, Dr. Yeoh Lee Su, Zam Zam Iryani Che Zainon, Nur Damia Athirah Saiful Arman, Nur Izzatul Qistina Adenan, Joanna Grace Victor, and Kanageswarry Arumugam.

One graduate highlighted the programme's practical lessons as its most memorable feature. The combination of language practice and cultural activities allowed participants to learn through direct experience while building confidence and friendships.

A meaningful moment during the ceremony was the exchange of commemorative gifts. One of the gifts was a painting created by a 71-year-old graduate who had participated in SITI Network's art programme. The artwork reflected the creativity, continued development, and active participation encouraged throughout 'AI-FLIP'.

Following the ceremony, graduates and guests attended a high tea session before taking photographs around the USM campus in their graduation robes.

'AI-FLIP' supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, which promotes inclusive quality education and lifelong learning. It also reflects USM's commitment to community engagement by creating meaningful learning opportunities for older adults and strengthening collaboration between the university and local organisations.

The graduation marked the conclusion of the inaugural 'AI-FLIP' programme and celebrated the graduates' willingness and desire to embrace new languages, cultural experiences, and technology at every stage of life.