Journey to Japan: 20 Indian Students Chosen for Sakura Programme 2024

Sakura Programme 2024: Celebrating Education and Innovation with 20 Students from India

To broaden the intellectual horizons and encourage scientific exploration among young learners, the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) has been implementing the “Japan-Asia Youth Exchange Program in Science,” known as the “Sakura Science Programme,” since 2014. India joined the Sakura Program in 2015, allowing students to visit Japan for short-term stays offering students a chance to experience Japan’s advanced science and technology alongside its rich culture. In 2024, the Department of School Education & Literacy (DoSEL) is sending 20 enthusiastic school students and 2 supervisors to Japan for the Sakura Programme, which will take place from October 20-26, 2024, alongside participants from 5 other countries.

At a ceremony held at CIET-NCERT, Shri Charanjt Taneja, Deputy Secretary of DoSEL; Dr. Amarendra Prasad Behera, Joint Director of CIET-NCERT; and Ms. Kirti Panwar, Deputy Commissioner of Navodaya Vidyalaya, warmly welcomed the excited children. Mr. Kemmochi Yukio, Manager of the Japan Science and Technology Agency, along with officials from DoSEL-MoE, also attended the event. The group consists of 10 boys and 10 girls from Navodaya Vidyalayas, all of whom are alumni of the PRERANA program, representing various regions across the country. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes the significance of curriculum and pedagogy in schools, stating that learning should be holistic, integrated, enjoyable, and engaging. It also highlights that experiential learning will be adopted as standard pedagogy across all subjects, encouraging the exploration of connections among different fields.
 

In this context, educational trips and excursions to sites of historical, cultural, social, and technological importance hold great value. Japan, as a developed nation and a friendly country known for its technological advancements, stands out as a popular destination for educational exposure. Visiting Japan is always enriching and offers opportunities to explore innovative practices. India first participated in the program in April 2016, and since then, 553 students and 85 supervisors have made the journey to Japan under this initiative.

Editor’s Note: 

The Sakura Science Programme, initiated by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), reflects a significant commitment to fostering international collaboration and scientific exploration among young learners. This initiative is part of the broader framework of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The goal of this program is to provide holistic and experiential learning so that well-rounded and globally-minded individuals can be nurtured. As India continues to participate in this program since its inception in 2016, hundreds of students and supervisors have benefited from the insights and experiences gained during their visits. 

Skoobuzz looks forward to following the journeys of these young ambassadors as they explore innovative practices and build lasting connections with their peers in Japan.