As a firm believer that “science is an international endeavor for the greater good of humanity”, I am honored to serve as the India Sakura Science Club Alumni Association Coordinator, a role I have held since 2020.

My journey with the Sakura Science Program (SSP) began in 2018 when I had the privilege of participating in the International Marine Biology Course at the Sado Marine Biological Station (SMBS), Niigata University, Japan. The program was meticulously organized, offering an enlightening hands-on experience in marine biology through field activities such as snorkeling and sampling, in-lab experiments, and both group and individual presentations. It was my first international exposure, and it profoundly transformed my personal and professional outlook. This unique experience not only deepened my understanding of marine biology but also boosted my confidence to engage in international academic environments.

One of the most rewarding aspects of SSP was the opportunity to interact with participants from around a dozen other countries. These interactions fostered cultural exchange and helped me develop the ability to confidently communicate with international students and professors. I am proud to acknowledge that I have built lasting friendships across the globe, spanning to the other end of the world, all thanks to the Sakura Science Club (SSC).

Inspired by this experience, I became a coordinator to contribute to SSP’s noble mission of fostering international friendship and collaboration. As a coordinator, I actively work to promote this vision, ensuring that others continue to benefit from similar transformative experiences. I am especially pleased to see that, even after half a decade, students from the Department of Marine Biology, Microbiology, and Biochemistry at Cochin University of Science and Technology continue to gain valuable exposure through this program.

Moreover, the active participation of Japanese professors in our department’s international conferences further strengthens our academic ties and underscores the value of such global collaborations. I sincerely hope this partnership continues to thrive, fostering meaningful relationships and advancing science for years to come.