Activity Report of Open Application Course vol.19
International Youth Workshop on Functional Nanohybrids
Report from the Supramolecular Chemistry Lab, Department of Materials Science and Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Kumamoto University
In the International Exchange for Experience in Science and Technological, we conducted an International Exchange Program at the Kumamoto University Supramolecular Chemistry Lab for seven days, from November 10 to November 16, 2019, for the purpose of introducing advanced research in the chemical field, particularly, supramolecular chemistry, and seeing manufacturing technologies in local private companies, conducting academic exchanges on science and technology with young undergraduate researchers and students, and exposing them to scientific experiences.
We would like to introduce you to the international exchange activities implemented by inviting three graduate students from the University of Dhaka (People's Republic of Bangladesh), four graduate students from Noakhali University of Science and Technology (People's Republic of Bangladesh), two faculty members and four graduate students from Kyrgyzstan Turkish Manas University (Kyrgyz Republic) and four graduate students, for a total of 13 people.
Academic Exchange Program
The academic exchange program invited faculty members of the University who conduct research in the fields of supramolecular chemistry, materials chemistry and photochemistry to give advanced science lectures, as well as university presentations and research introductions by young researchers from the University of Dhaka, Noakhali University of Science and Technology and Kyrgyzstan Turkish Manas University. A large number of graduate and undergraduate students from Kumamoto University also participated in the lectures, providing a good opportunity to get to know one side of the academic research being conducted at Kumamoto University, as well as to promote academic exchanges among the young researchers. In addition, a lab tour was conducted to give them a tour of the various synthesis devices and advanced analytical equipment we have at the school and in the laboratory. I was given the strong impression that they were eager to listen to the lectures and descriptions of the equipment, and I felt that they all had great interest in Japanese science and technology.
A group discussion in English with graduate and undergraduate university students of Kumamoto University was planned. The young researchers and students from both sides were given a great opportunity freely to express their opinions. I think this kind of academic exchange with young researchers from different countries is a major stimulus to everyone. Japanese students struggled to communicate in unfamiliar English, but at the end of the discussion, they were still seen speaking with a smile and engaging in a lively discussion. I think this has been an opportunity for undergraduate students to realize the importance of attaining a higher level of professional English language skills.
Experience Program
The experience program offered tours of public research institutions and private companies in Kumamoto Prefecture that are engaged in chemical work. In addition to touring the Kumamoto Industrial Research Institute, a research and development hub in Kumamoto Prefecture, the participants were also briefed on the JST Regional Innovation Program that has been promoted in the Kumamoto region with the Institute being a center of focus. The participants also visited a precision machinery manufacturer (Preceed Co., Ltd.) and a beverage manufacturer (Suntory Kyushu Kumamoto Plant) to give them a tour of Japan's state-of-the-art technology and manufacturing sites. They seem to have learned a lot about Japanese science and technology through careful explanations and Q&A.
The program provided an opportunity for the participants to explore Kumamoto's attractions, including Kumamoto City and the national park at the Aso area, and to learn about Japanese culture and Japanese foods. The full enjoyment of Kumamoto's nature and a better understanding of culture and history seemed to have deepened their interest in Japan.
I would like to thank the faculty and staff of the University as well as the young researchers and graduate students of the University who actively participated in the international exchange for their cooperation in its implementation. I would also like to express my deep gratitude to the Sakura Science Exchange Program for indispensable support.