Event Details:

The event was commenced by the moderators, Mr. Priyam Shrivastava and Ms. Hindavi Todkar (ISSCA Coordinators). They gave a brief introduction about the theme of the event and the agenda of the alumni meeting.

A warm welcome was given to all the distinguished guests, invited honourable speakers and the alumni members by the moderators and by Ms. Antara Puranik (ISCAA President). She gave a brief introduction of all invited speakers and guests to the alumni members.

In her speech, she firstly mentioned about a quote by ‘Swami Vivekananda,’ the most influential philosophers, and social reformers in India.

Quote- “In my opinion, if all our rich and educated men once go and see Japan, their eyes will be opened, because, in Japan, you find a fine assimilation of knowledge and not its indigestion. The people of Japan have the highest technological advancement in the world, but the remain Japanese, all the time.”

She then mentioned a few cultural similarities that are present between Japan and India. Japan and India are 6,000 kms apart, yet have so many similarities in their cultures, traditions, and history. “Kabuki” a classical form of Japanese drama combined with traditional dance is so much similar to “Kathakali”, a traditional form of Indian classical dance. Similarly, the “Koli” dance, originating from the vibrant Koli fishing community of Maharashtra, is very similar to the “So ran Bushi”, the most famous traditional songs and dance of fishermen of Japan.

She said that the people of both, India and Japan worship deities and a striking similarity is observed between “Benzaiten”: The goddess of speech, arts, and learning, is similar to Goddess “Saraswati”.

She also mentioned that in the use of language, In India, people do not say “I am going”. They say, “I am going and coming back”. Similarly, in Japan, people say “Ittekimasu”, which has the same meaning.

She said that, technologically, however, Japan is much more advanced than any country in the world. Japanese technologies such as “Honda, Hitachi, Panasonic, Sony, Maruti Suzuki, Yamaha, Toyota, Mitsubishi” are household names in India since a very long time. The latest technology includes the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail project that will connect Mumbai, Maharashtra with Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The technology is funded by the Japanese government and uses the ‘Shinkansen’ technology from Japan. She concluded her speech by mentioning that the traditions of Japan and India greatly influence each other, and the technological developments of the countries are fascinating and incredibly enriching.

Among the invited guest speakers, the first speech was given by Ms. HOKUGO KYOKO, the Minister Economics and Development, Embassy of Japan in India.

Ms. HOKUGO firstly congratulated all the team members of ISCAA and JST for their efforts for arranging the 6^th alumni meeting. In her speech she mentioned about Sakura Science Program, that it invites outstanding talents from around the world who will lead the society to the next era and through this program the students get a chance to observe and feel the Japan’s cutting-edge science, technology, and culture. She then said that she wishes that all the alumni of Sakura Science Club will be the future for India and Japan collaborations and become excellent advisers to the young students who wish to visit Japan.

She also mentioned that the Japanese Government Universities offer variety of programs, and many courses are there where you can obtain a degree entirely in English language. The promotion of study in Japan from India is handled by the ‘University of Tokyo.’

Most importantly Ms. HOKUGO, in her speech, talked about the two schemes which are introduced by the Embassy of Japan in India. The first one she talked about was “MEXT scholarship” (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology), which offers scholarships to students aiming to obtain degrees at undergraduate and graduate levels in the Japanese Universities. The MEXT program was established in the year 1954 and till date many Indian students have studied through this program. She said that the Embassy of Japan in India conducts the recruitment and selection process of this program in India.

The second scheme she mentioned about was the “JET program” (Japanese Exchange and Teaching program), which was implemented by the Japanese government and local government since 1987.

She said that many participants who went to Japan through JET programs serve as bridges between their country and Japan by working in Japanese local companies or by starting new businesses in Japan, and so, this program will greatly benefit in forming a stronger bond between Japan and India.

Ms. HOKUGO concluded her speech by wishing best to all the alumni members and hoping that the bonds between Japan and India grow stronger.

The second guest speech was given by Dr. Umesh Kumar Sharma, the Head, INSPIRE -MANAK, Department of Science & Technology, Ministry of Science and Technology, Govt. of India.

Dr. Umesh started his speech by congratulating all the members and the organising committee of the alumni meeting. He also thanked the Japanese officials for announcing various schemes to the students which will help in strengthening the bonds between the two countries.

In the beginning he pointed out that DST Inspire-Manak, India has been a part of Sakura Science Program since the year 2015 and since then a total of 350 students and 50 teachers have visited Japan through this program. The students got a chance of visiting the Laboratories and Research institutes of Japan and had an interaction with the Nobel Laureates. He said that the students and teachers who got an exposure of abroad visit will give an exchange of R & D advancements, cultural and heritage knowledge.

Dr. Umesh then mentioned that last year, there was a student exchange where 10 students and with them 2 supervisors from Japan had visited India under the Inspire-Manak program. He said the response from the Japanese students was very exciting because the students were very interested in visiting India for their studies. He said that this year also (2025) students from India will get an invitation to visit Japan through JST and Inspire-Manak program.

He also talked about how DST is always open for more collaborations with the Japan government for strengthening the bilateral relations between the two countries.

In the conclusion of his speech, he said that the feedback DST officials received from the students of Japan who visited India under the Inspire- Manak program have the same feeling that Indian students have while visiting Japan. He hopes that more schools of Japan and India will participate in this student exchange programs and he believes that both the countries have brilliant innovators.

The last guest talk was by Mr. NISHIMURA YASUTOSHI, Chairman of the Japan India Parliamentary Friendship League (JIPFL). It was a message which was presented by Mr. ITO SOTARO, Deputy Director-General, Sakura Science Program Headquarters, Japan Science and Technology Agency.

[Reading by Mr. ITO].
As per Mr. NISHIMURA’s message, he pointed out that Japan and India established Diplomatic relations in the year 1952 and have a relationship that spans over 70 years. In this period, a wide range of cooperation have been carried out between the two countries in the field of economy and forming human exchanges. With relation to the human exchanges, he said that, for building a strong relationship between the two countries, it is necessary to continue putting more efforts in welcoming more Indian students to Japan and it is also important that young Japanese people come to India for mutual exchanges.

Mr. NISHIMURA talked about the Sakura Science programme, that it was started in the year 2015 and it has already invited 3,555 talented young people from India to Japan, who have had the opportunity to experience the advancement of Japanese science and technology as well as Japan’s culture.

He mentioned that through these activities, he is sure that these students must have contributed to the mutual understanding and goodwill between the people of our two countries. Furthermore, he is sure that they will contribute to the development of our societies including science and technology. He said, everyone who participated in today’s alumni meeting will surely serve as a bridge between India and Japan in the future.

He said, ‘as chairman of Japan-India, Parliamentary Friendship League, he will do his best to strengthen the co-operative relationship between India and Japan and also to develop people to people exchanges.

Mr. NISHIMURA concluded his message by saying that the Sakura Science Club alumni association will serve as a bridge between Japan and India to promote further brilliant exchanges with Japan.

After the end of the speech of the third guest speaker, a beautiful group photograph was taken with all the honourable guests, invited speakers and all the alumni members.

After the group photo, the next session started. In this session, India Sakura Science Club Alumni members gave a presentation and talk about their experience of the visit.

The first talk was given by Ms. Antim Nehra, a student at Indus Public School (Pillukhera Jind), Haryana. (visited Japan in 2024). She was selected for this prestigious program through ‘PRERNA’ program by Ministry of Education, India.

She started her talk by mentioning a quote by Swami Vivekananda: “I would wish that every one of our young man could visit Japan once at least in his lifetime”.

Ms. Antim started to share her experience of visiting Japan.

She mentioned that Sakura Science program was an unforgettable experience for her. Her group visited many different sites in Japan like: The University of Tokyo, where she experienced of learning robotics and advanced technology of Japan; The University of Tsukuba, where she got a chance of observing the ‘Super Computer, Pegasus’; Miraikan museum, where she saw so many high technological experiments and robots;
JAMSTEC, [Japan Agency for Marine Technology and Science]; Technological Utopia: TEPIA where she got an experience to see advanced robotics and artificial intelligence and, to a junior high school whose Principal was an Indian.

She talked about the development in her personality that happened after her visit like, she made many new friends from various countries like Bangladesh, Laos, Malaysia, Argentina, and Japan. During this trip she said that everyone became a small Sakura family which demonstrates ‘Vasudev Kutumbakam’ means the whole world is our family. From her visit to Japan she learned so many things and skills like her social skills got better, being punctual, cleanliness, leadership qualities that made her the captain of her school, responsibility management skills, being consistent, understanding the difference between likes and needs and use mathematical models which will help her in the research.

In the conclusion of her talk, she mentioned that ‘Sakura Science Program’ was like a ‘golden ticket’ for her as it helped her in the development of knowledge in technology of robotics and also developed her social skills and taught her work ethics in the field of research.

The second talk was given by Ms. Ananya Pothankunnath Ravi, Master’s student in Marine Biology, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kerala. (visited Japan in 2024). She was selected for this prestigious program through her University and JST.

Ms. Ananya, in her talk shared the experience of her visit. During her Sakura visit, she got an opportunity to participate in the ‘International Marine Biology Course’ (IMBC) 2024 at Marine Biological Station, Sado Island Center for Ecological Sustainability, Niigata University (SMBS). She also got a chance of attending an International conference on ‘Natural Sciences’ with Sisterhood Universities (ICNS) 2024 which was hosted by Niigata University. She then talked about her experience in IMBC 2024. She said that the Sado Island was one of the most beautiful places that she has visited in her life.

During her course there she had few lectures and hands-on experiences in Marine biology. She also had different and amazing sampling and snorkeling experiences during her visit. The most magical experience that she had was observation of “bio-luminescence of Japanese sea firefly” which is a marine Ostracod.

She also shared her experience of ICNS conference which was in Niigata University where she had an opportunity of giving an oral presentation. She said that presenting her work in front of international scientists and students boosted her confidence and gave her a platform to interact with many honourable scientists.

She concluded her talk by thanking JST for giving her a platform to visit Japan under the prestigious Sakura Science student exchange program. She also gave her sincere thanks to the Sado Marine Biology Center and Niigata University for giving her these prestigious opportunities.

The third talk was given Dr. Sumit Mehta, SERB-National Post-Doctoral Fellow (N-PDF), Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati.

Dr. Sumit talked about his research which was titled as: Applications of Flow Engineering in Hydroponics: A Smart Agricultural technique. He mentioned that the IITG and Kyushu Institute of Technology, Japan are planning to collaborate in this research work.

During his visit to Japan, he got a chance of visiting Kyushu Institute of Technology, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka. There he got an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas and research plans amongst the Japanese scientists and research students. He observed many advanced lab equipment and instruments in the labs and saw the beautiful campus of the University. He learned many new interesting and advanced techniques during his visit like manufacturing techniques, building some simulation models to understand the mechanism of heat transfer etc.

He then explained about his current research project which is related to Hydroponics and talked about its advantages in the current world. He showed a few slides related to his research work and also showed a few diagrams, photographs and calculations related to his on-going research.

In the conclusion of his talk, he gave his sincere thanks to JST officials, Professors and Researchers from Kyushu Institute of Technology and IIT Guwahati officials who gave him this prestigious opportunity of visiting Japan and learning new techniques and exchanging ideas among the Researchers and eminent Scientists of Kyushu Institute of Technology, Japan.

The last talk in this session was given by Dr. Vaibhav Geeta Pankaj Mehta, Chief AI Officer and Researcher, Associate member, TAS design group, Japan Society of Artificial Intelligence, Japan Society of Civil Engineers. (visited Japan in 2016).

He started his talk by providing it a headline, “Kizuna of Knowledge” which means “connection or a bond between the knowledge of Japan and India”.

He firstly mentioned that he represented Japan in India for an India-Japan Energy Summit in 2024. He was also invited for Asia Pacific Europe Summer School as a Sakura Science member.

He then shared the experience of his Japan visit. He did his research works in the fields of AI and SHM. He mentioned the best thing about studying and working in Japan is that the Professors are focusing more on field works as well as lab works.

He mentioned that after Sakura Science Exchange program, he got an opportunity to study in Japan through the prestigious ‘MONBUKAGAKUSHO: MEXT’ scholarship.

He concluded his talk by giving a few advices to the young members about being tolerant, flexible, and adaptive. We should have integrity, even when no one is watching us, help everyone and be kind. The most important thing he mentioned to everyone was that if they really want to achieve their dreams or goals, they have to go out of their comfort zones.

After the session of sharing of SSC member’s experience was over, a few questions were asked by the members to the speaker.

After a brief Q and A session was over, the next session of “Study in Japan” and “Activity by Coordinators” started.

The first talk was delivered by Ms. Hargun Luthra, In-Country Representative (ICR), The University of Tokyo India Office. She delivered a talk about “Study in Japan”.

She mentioned that the ‘University of Tokyo’ is commissioned by the Government of Japan, and they started a global network project to promote study in Japan. She said that the Japanese Universities offer a diverse range of academic programs including degree courses in English language also.

She then talked about a few points on why one should select Japan as the country to pursue higher studies. She said that: Japan is one of the safest countries, globally ranking 9 by the Global Peace Index. They have the society that values cleanliness and there is harmony and mutual respect amongst the people of the country. Japan is convenient to live and there is a huge diversity amongst youngsters who belong to various other countries. The infrastructure is very developed and advanced compared to other countries.

She then mentioned about the Higher Education System in Japan. She said that the education in Japan can be divided into five types:
Technical Colleges/Kosen (for Associate degrees), Specialised Training Colleges (for Diploma/Advanced diploma degrees), Junior Colleges (Associate degrees), Undergraduate Schools/Universities (for Bachelor’s degree) and Graduate Schools/Universities (for Master’s and Doctoral degree courses). There are also foreign language schools. She suggested to visit the ‘Study in Japan’ website for searching the appropriate colleges or universities that match with your degree of interest. She said that the admission for the Japanese Universities takes place one year before the actual joining year.

The third point that she talked about was related to ‘Examination procedures’ and the ‘Language proficiency’. She firstly mentioned about the “EJU”, Examination for the Japanese University Admission for International Students. This exam is necessary for the international students who are planning to enroll at the undergraduate level. The EJU scores are considered by many Japanese universities during the admission process. This exam contains subjects like: Japanese as foreign language, science, Japan and the world and basic mathematics. EJU exam is held twice in a year. In India ‘MOSAI’ is responsible for conducting the EJU exams.

She then mentioned the cost of living in Japan and academic fees required. She talked about various scholarships like: Japanese Government MEXT scholarship, JASSO Scholarship (Monbukagakusho Honors Scholarship for Privately-Financed International Students), Student Exchange Support Program (Scholarship for Short-term study in Japan) and Local Government or Private Foundation for a Scholarship. She also mentioned about the ‘On- Campus Scholarship and Tuition Fees Exemption System’.

Lastly, she then mentioned about the career opportunities after completing graduation from Japan. She mentioned various job opportunities like in the field of translation and interpretation of languages, Information and communication technology, Management, International trades, Accounting etc.

The next talk in this session was given by Ms. Nandni Bagga, ISCAA Coordinator. It was a video message in which she shared her experience of living in Japan.

In her video message, she talked about what life looks like for a Sakura Science Club member after completing the Sakura Science Exchange programme.

She firstly gave her introduction. She said that she was a girl who used to live her 9-5 job in Bangalore for two years until she decided to make an incredible change in her career by grabbing the opportunity to work in Japan. She has experienced the living in Japan lifestyle earlier through Sakura Exchange Program which helped a lot to her in taking this huge decision.

Currently, Ms. Nandini is working as a Software Engineer in Tokyo, Japan. Her beautiful and exciting journey started in 2024 during the 5th Alumni meeting of ISCAA, where she had an opportunity to have a talk with the Japanese officials who guided her in pursing this dream.

She said that it has been 4 months since she moved to Tokyo and her experience of living in Japan, finding an apartment there and the company work life, all were very comfortable and convenient for her. Even though she could not speak Japanese language, she said that the people of Japan have been very hospitable and caring towards her.

In conclusion of her talk, she mentioned one thing that, if one puts efforts in pursuing their dreams, they can definitely achieve it. She said that she believed that she could achieve great heights because of her visit to Japan through Sakura Science exchange program. SSC gave her a confidence that she is an extraordinary student who can achieve extraordinary things in life.

She gave her sincere thanks to all the JST and JISTEC officials for always supporting her and for creating Sakura Science Student Exchange program that have created many opportunities for students across the world to achieve their dreams.

After her speech, the next activity started.

It was a “Quiz” which was arranged by the ISCAA coordinators, Ms. Mansi Sharma, Ms. Disha Malik, and Ms. Aishwarya Bansidhar.

Theme of the quiz- “Fusion Quest: Traditions and Technologies”. The objective of the quiz was to explore and celebrate the fusion of Indian and Japanese traditions and technologies through a fun and interactive “Kahoot quiz”.

Overview of the quiz: The quiz was divided into four themes, each containing three questions. Each theme had two questions related to Japan and one question related to India. The themes were: “Tradition Treasures”, “Screen Spectacles”, “Tech Titans”, and “News Nuggets”.

Theme 1, Tradition Treasures: This theme focused on the rich cultural heritage and traditional practices of Japan and India. It had the questions related to festivals, rituals, art forms, and ancient practices that have been passed down through generations. Participants explored the deep-rooted traditions that define the cultural identities of both countries through these questions.

Theme 2, Screen Spectacles: This theme celebrated the vibrant world of anime, cinema, and television from India and Japan. It covered popular anime series, iconic films, renowned directors, and memorable songs. Participants delved into the entertainment industries of both countries, highlighting their influence and global appeal.

Theme 3, Tech Titans: This theme highlighted the technological advancements and innovations from India and Japan. It had questions about the robotics, space exploration, industrial automation, and notable scientists. Participants learned about the cutting-edge technologies and contributions that have positioned both countries as leaders in the tech world.

Theme 4, News Nuggets: This theme focused on the current affairs and recent developments in India and Japan. It covered the topics such as political leaders, significant events, and recent achievements. Participants knowledge got updated on the latest news and happenings due to these questions.

The quiz was played in the groups of three and first three winners were given prizes

After the last session was over, the vote of thanks was given by Dr. Pousali, (ISCAA Coordinator).

After the session was over, Mr. ITO SOTARO, Deputy Director-General, Sakura Science Program Headquarters, Japan Science and Technology Agency, JST and Mr. NISHIKAWA YUJI, Advisor, Sakura Science Program Headquarters, Japan Science and Technology Agency, JST gave a small speech. They announced that JST is currently considering a new initiative so that SSC members can return to Japan.

After this, Mr. ITO announced the beginning of the next session which was the “Networking Session”. All the guests and alumni members exchanged their ideas and had a wonderful interactive session together.

There was one message which was delivered by one ISCAA member, Mr. Jatin. He said that he has learned a lot from Sakura Science Club. He believes that all the alumni members of SSC will definitely contribute towards the strengthening of the relationship between Japan and India for the betterment of tomorrow. He said that Sakura Science program is not only limited for the student exchange programs but has created an opportunity to develop a change inside the brilliant minds of many students. He mentions that he has also felt a change in him after his visit to Japan and sincerely wants to thank all the Japanese officials for giving him this life changing chance.

Some more photos of the Alumni meet:

ISCAA Coordinators

ISCAA Coordinators with JST and JISTEC officials

Photos of the meeting

Networking between alumni and dignitaries.

Coordinator’s meeting with JST and JISTEC officials