Participating in the Sakura Science Program (SSP) was one of the most memorable and inspiring experiences in my life.

Before coming to Japan, I was so curious and excited just wondering what I would learn, who I would meet, and how this journey would shape me. Now, I can say this with certainty that this has been one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life.

Through this program I got the chance to explore Japan and also meet brilliant people from all around the world with different cultures and backgrounds

16th August, 2025 was the day we boarded our flight to leave Ghana. I was both excited and nervous because that was my first time leaving my country. The mixed feelings of excitement I had made me to be awake for almost the whole journey. When we finally reached the AOTS Center, the first thing I did when I got to my room was to try a vending machine because I saw it in anime all the time, but have never tried it in my real life before then.

After our orientation we had a special lecture from Professor Fujishima Akira, I was so honored to have a lecture from a big name such as the professor, I had only been reading his works online and finally I got the chance to have a lecture from him in person.

One of the highlights of the trip was our visit to the University of Tokyo, where we toured the campus and also their science gallery. It was also during this visit that I tried ramen for the first time, which quickly became one of my favorite Japanese dishes.

Our visit to the University of Tsukuba was equally remarkable. We had the opportunity to meet students from our own country who are currently studying there.

Then we had a really wonderful and interactive lecture delivered by Mr. Santos Enoque Safrão, his lecture was about computer vision and it was so amazing I can still remember every single detail.

Another unforgettable experience was visiting the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST). We attended a practical lecture on fuel cells from Dr. Hisanori Ando, where we not only learned about clean energy technologies but also had the chance to build a small fuel cell ourselves. We also had the chance to take a tour of the AIST Cube where I saw several incredible inventions and technologies.

Before going to TICAD 9, (The 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development) we also visited the JAXA Space Center. That experience was truly special because I finally saw real space equipment and technologies that I had only ever seen on TV or online. Standing in front of actual spacecraft components made me feel inspired and reminded me of how powerful human innovation can be.

At TICAD 9, we had the chance to share ideas, learn from others, and even make Japanese friends. Everyone in Japan I've met was so friendly and kind.

We also visited Asakusa, where I got to experience Japan's traditional culture. I bought a kimono and a katana, which will always remind me of this beautiful trip.

Our visit to Miraikan was also one of my favorite experiences. I saw so a lot of cool robots and futuristic technologies that I had only seen online. The part that surprised me the most was learning about quantum computing. I didn't expect to enjoy that session as much as I did, but it opened my mind to a whole new field I want to explore more.

Overall, the Sakura Science Exchange Program really changed the way I see science, culture, and the world. It pushed me to dream bigger, stay curious, and keep going confidently in my STEM journey. I also took so many pictures because I wanted to capture every moment. And honestly, after everything I experienced, I would love to come back to Japan someday and explore even more.