34 Indian Students Join Japan’s Sakura Science Program to Explore Innovation

In line with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes holistic, enjoyable, and experiential learning, a group of 34 Indian school students and three supervisors have embarked on a transformative journey to Japan under the prestigious Sakura Science Programme 2025. The initiative, hosted by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), seeks to broaden intellectual horizons, foster curiosity, and strengthen international academic cooperation.

NEP 2020 and Experiential Learning

The NEP 2020 highlights that curriculum and pedagogy must be holistic, integrated, and engaging. It underscores experiential learning as a standard pedagogy across all subjects and encourages exploration of interconnections between disciplines. In this context, educational trips and international exchanges provide opportunities for young learners to experience innovation first-hand and understand diverse cultural traditions.

Japan, with its reputation as a technologically advanced and culturally rich nation, has long been considered an ideal partner for such educational experiences. For Indian students, a visit to Japan not only strengthens exposure to cutting-edge science but also instills appreciation for discipline, punctuality, and cultural pride.

About the Sakura Science Programme

Launched in 2014 by JST, the Sakura Science Programme aims to bring together youth from Asia and Africa to experience Japan’s advances in science, technology, and culture. India joined the program in 2016, and since then, 639 students and 93 supervisors from India have visited Japan. The most recent Indian delegation before this year’s cohort visited in June 2025.

For the August 2025 edition, Japan has invited delegations from seven countries: India, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Zambia. The Indian team consists of 13 boys and 21 girls selected from government schools across Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Lakshadweep, Odisha, Puducherry, and West Bengal, as well as from the Demonstration Multipurpose Schools of the Regional Institutes of Education (RIEs-NCERT) at Ajmer, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, and Mysore.

Flagging-Off Ceremony at NCERT, New Delhi

The Indian delegation was formally flagged off at a ceremony held at NCERT, New Delhi, organized by the Department of School Education & Literacy (DoSEL), Ministry of Education (MoE). The ceremony was graced by:

• Sh. Sanjay Kumar, Secretary, Department of School Education & Literacy, MoE.

• Prof. Prakash Chandra Agrawal, Joint Director, NCERT.

• Smt. Archana Sharma Awasthi, Joint Secretary, DoSEL, MoE.

In his address, Sanjay Kumar described the Sakura Science Programme as a golden opportunity for students to explore the technological sophistication of Japan while serving as young ambassadors of India.

Key Messages to the Students

Sanjay Kumar shared several insights with the departing students:

• Cultural Exchange and Pride: He encouraged students to greet people with a “Namaste”, highlighting how the gesture has gained global recognition, thanks to India’s diplomatic outreach.

• Learning Punctuality: He reminded students that Japan is admired for punctuality, discipline, and efficiency, noting the saying: “Time and tide wait for none.”

• Economic Inspiration: He pointed out Japan’s remarkable history and economic rise, suggesting India can adopt a similar approach of determination and innovation.

• Respect for Culture: He emphasized that while Japan values its traditions—such as tea ceremonies and etiquette—India also has a rich cultural heritage that students should proudly showcase abroad.

• Environmental Awareness: Highlighting Japan’s famed cherry blossoms and emphasis on cleanliness, he urged students to observe these practices and apply similar values back home.

“The 34 students going to Japan are India’s young ambassadors. Make friends, observe, learn, and adopt the best practices from Japan, while sharing the richness of Indian culture with equal pride,” Kumar said.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

The Sakura Science Programme not only enhances academic learning but also contributes to strengthening India–Japan relations. By fostering person-to-person ties among youth, the program builds mutual understanding and cooperation between the two nations.

For Indian students, the week-long program in Japan offers an immersive experience that blends exposure to advanced scientific institutions with opportunities to appreciate Japanese traditions, social values, and cultural heritage.

Looking Ahead

As India continues to align its education reforms with NEP 2020’s vision of experiential and global learning, participation in international initiatives like the Sakura Science Programme will play a critical role. These young learners represent the spirit of a new generation—curious, ambitious, and ready to contribute to India’s growth while building bridges with the world.