Nagaland students shine in Japan's Sakura Science Programme

DIMAPUR — Four students from Nagaland, including two from government higher secondary schools, made the state proud by participating in the prestigious Sakura Science High School Programme in Japan, held from June 13 to the 21st.

Shethilu Medeo of Rüzhükhrie GHSS, Iris Zomawii Lushai of Chümoukedima GHSS, Farhadul Islam Talukder of Jawarhar Navodaya Vidayala (JNV) Kiphire, and Zarenthung Odyuo of Holy Cross HSS, Dimapur, were among the contingent representing the country in the international science and cultural exchange initiative.

The Sakura Science Exchange Programme is organised under the Japan-Asia Youth Exchange Programme in Science by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) and supported by the Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL), Ministry of Education, Government of India.

The students from Nagaland were selected based on academic merit and innovation under the Samagra Shiksha initiative and Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE). They were accompanied by Gihukali Sema, Post Graduate Teacher of Chümoukedima GHSS.

The students arrived Dimapur airport on Sunday.

Interacting with the media, it was learnt that during the week-long visit, the students engaged in various interactive activities, including school and university visits, science demonstrations, and cultural exchanges.

The programme aimed to promote scientific curiosity and international cooperation among high school students across Asia.

Also read: Two students to attend youth exchange programme in Japan

Among the participants, Iris Zomawii, who has been self-learning Japanese since childhood, acted as an informal interpreter during the programme.

Sharing her experience, she said, “It was amazing to explore Japan’s culture and their advanced use of science and technology. The cleanliness, politeness, and organisation in their society were inspiring.”

Farhadul Islam, who topped a national-level painting competition under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), and Zarenthung Odyuo, who showcased a scientific innovation at the National Level Exhibition and Project Competition (NLEPC) under the INSPIRE MANAK Scheme, were selected based on their outstanding performance in national science programmes.

Daniel Thong Seb, State Nodal Officer for the INSPIRE MANAK Scheme and Deputy Director of SCERT Nagaland, stated, “This is the first time students from Nagaland government schools have participated in the Sakura Programme. It’s a proud moment, especially as they earned their spots through merit. Their exposure to Japan’s science education and culture will remain with them for life.”

A special acknowledgment was extended to the Department of School Education, Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, and key officials including Commissioner and Secretary and former Mission Director, Temsunaro Aier, whose personal efforts helped fast-track documentation and travel formalities for the students.

Principal of PM Shri Higher Secondary School, Chümoukedima, Karen Yepthomi, emphasised, “Opportunities like this are life-changing. Unless officers at the helm push for inclusivity and implementation, such programs may never reach government school students. We’re deeply grateful.”

She mentioned that this marks the second time that participants from the NLEPC have travelled to Japan through the initiative of SCERT Nagaland, highlighting the growing presence of Nagaland’s youth in international scientific forums.

As Nagaland continues to promote academic excellence and innovation among its youth, the participation of these four students in the Sakura Science Programme serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring scientists across the state, she added.