The Ministry of Education, Government of India, in collaboration with the Japan Science and Technology (JST) Agency, has launched an educational exposure visit for a team of 63 students and escorted teachers to Japan. The purpose of this visit is to provide these young learners with a firsthand experience of various places of importance in Japan, including industrial organizations, museums, universities, and research institutions. By gathering first-hand information and knowledge, the students will gain valuable insights that will guide them in their future careers.
The participating students are academically outstanding performers from Kendriya Vidyalayas and Navodaya Vidyalayas, belonging to classes 11 and 12. They aspire to pursue higher education in different subject areas. Eager and motivated, these students are looking forward to their week-long visit to Japan, which will take place from July 9th to July 15th, 2023.
The event marking the commencement of this visit was attended by distinguished individuals including Smt. Archana Sharma Awasthi, Joint Secretary of the Department of School Education & Literacy, MoE; Mr. Kemmochi Yukio, Manager JST Japan; Dr. A P Behera, Joint Director of CIET-NCERT, and officials from the Ministry of Education, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan, and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti, among others.
This initiative between the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) and the Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education, Government of India, aims to develop the intellectual horizon and scientific exploration among young learners. Since 2014, they have been implementing the Sakura Science High School Programme as part of the Sakura Science Programme (SSP). This program invites students for short-term visits to Japan, providing them with the opportunity to experience Japan’s cutting-edge science and technology, as well as its rich culture.
India first participated in the program in April 2016, and since then, a total of 411 students along with 69 supervisors have had the chance to visit Japan under this program. The previous batch of students visited Japan in November 2019. Even during the pandemic period, JST conducted online university visits, ensuring that the exchange and learning opportunities continued.
This collaboration between the Ministry of Education, the Government of India, and the Japan Science and Technology Agency highlights the importance of international educational exchange and the value it brings to young learners. Such initiatives not only broaden their horizons but also foster cultural understanding and promote cooperation between nations. The exposure to Japan’s scientific advancements and cultural heritage will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on these students, fueling their curiosity and passion for knowledge.
