Disproving the notion that AI takes jobs: Japan's dramatic turn shows the holder of the new 'AI Passport' is the winner

Japan’s labor market is redefining the role of humans in the age of artificial intelligence, with growing emphasis on measurable AI literacy and safe application. The Generative AI Passport exam—described as the largest certification in Japan aimed at reducing risks linked to generative AI—covers foundational knowledge, trends, practical methods for applying generative AI, and key issues such as information leakage and rights violations. Organizers say it helps newcomers to acquire the minimum AI literacy in a structured way.

February 2026 results show strong demand

In February 2026, a Tokyo-based association for generative AI applications and outreach announced results for the Generative AI Passport exam. The test recorded a record number of examinees, with 28,415 participants and 22,401 passing. The total official number of people who have surpassed the certification threshold is reported to be over 83,000, indicating strong demand to identify enterprises and personnel with sufficient knowledge to use generative AI safely.

From certification to performance evaluation

While the certification focuses on understanding risks, the next phase in Japan’s corporate environment centers on applying AI to create value. The article frames this as a shift in internal corporate dynamics, where real-world capability becomes a key metric affecting seniority and advancement in Japanese corporate groups.

NTT Docomo Solutions rolls out AI practical performance evaluation

On March 5, 2026, NTT Docomo Solutions, part of Japan’s telecommunications group, announced the official rollout of an “AI practical performance evaluation” regime to assess employees’ AI application performance. The program applies to all employees and is divided into four levels based on AI usage results, with the stated goal of accelerating AI talent development and clarifying skills grounded in practical experience.

Four-tier certification levels

The evaluation system is designed to progress through the following levels:

• White Belt: basic staff who can apply AI in line with predefined processes.
• Yellow Belt: employees who can work autonomously.
• Green Belt: employees who can realize performance optimization and elevate value through AI within their scope.
• Black Belt: top leaders who spearhead company-wide transformation and disseminate knowledge to the next generation.

How employees are assessed

In the evaluation process, employees self-declare achievements and skills. An AI-based system then reviews the records to determine the level, issue the certificate, and publicly display the level within the company.

Source: PR Times