The Sakura Science Exchange Program is a student exchange program, that is an effort by the government of Japan, coordinated by the Japan Science and Technology (JST) Agency, to encourage interaction between Japanese and international students. This program gives students an opportunity to learn about Japanese science, technology and culture through a period of residency in Japan, where they participate in a variety of activities.
A group of nine MS students along with two of our faculty members, Professor Susan and Professor Miran participated in the program. The students undertook research activities throughout the course of the program at Professor Shiro Seki’s Lab in Kogakuin University. They carried out experiments related to their research work, and learned new sampling techniques and analysis procedures in the process. They also visited various other labs in the department and learned about their ongoing research. One of the days at the lab was particularly fun as the students of the Seki lab cooked Japanese style curry with bread, and spaghetti with tuna for lunch and supper. The food was simple but tasty and everyone enjoyed it.
The activities were not limited to just lab experiments. A day excursion to the scenic Mount Takao, a tourist hotspot of Hachioji, allowed students of the two labs to interact more freely, outside of the formal lab environment. At lunch, the students from our lab got to enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine for the first time.
The students attended a conference which included speakers Professor Masayoshi Watanabe, Professor Kikuko Hayamizu and Professor M.A.B.H. Susan. Students from both the labs also presented their research topics. This was followed by a banquet, which was a first for the students, and needless to say they loved it.
The final scheduled activity was a trip to Wakuwaku village on the outskirts of Hachioji, where the students stayed overnight. The free time during the evening was spent playing table tennis, and competition was inevitable as every player tried to outplay the other in friendly matches.
The trip was extended by four days due to Typhoon Hagibis, which resulted in flights being halted. This gave the students a chance to explore Hachioji further, and the final days were filled with visits to scenic parks and walks around town, and a final bit of shopping.
The program was a once in a lifetime experience for the students, inspired them and gave them a new perspective into the world of research and innovation.
