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International Academic Exchange with Mapúa University, Philippines / Advanced Medical Materials Training Conducted at Okayama University of Science

2024.11.01更新news

International Academic Exchange with Mapúa University, Philippines / Advanced Medical Materials Training Conducted at Okayama University of Science

Group photo with participants from both universities

As part of the Japan Science and Technology Agency’s “Sakura Science Program,” Okayama University of Science (OUS) hosted a delegation from the Philippines’ Mapúa University (MU), including seven students and one faculty member, for a seven-day training program held from October 20 to October 26, 2024. Under the theme "Cutting-Edge Medical Materials: From Fundamental Research to Practical Applications -A Journey through Technological Experiences-," the program provided participants with opportunities to conduct specialized experiments such as human stem cell culture and protein crystallization—experiences not commonly available in the Philippines. Additionally, the group toured OUS’s state-of-the-art research facilities, including the Research Instruments Center, Science Dream Lab (a center supporting practical and creative skill development through advanced machining technology), the Research Facility for the Third Water (an artificial habitat featuring “suitable environmental water,” allowing saltwater and freshwater species to coexist), and the Museum of Dinosaur Research, offering a unique glimpse into the university's extensive research resources.

 

On October 24, the delegation visited the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at OUS's Imabari Campus, exploring the latest advancements in veterinary research. They also attended a lecture by Lecturer Masashi Mukohda on the relationship between gut flora and lifestyle diseases, providing valuable insights into ongoing research. On October 25, the MU group was honored to meet OUS President Hiroyuki Hirano. The visiting students shared their thoughts on the experience: "The chance to conduct hands-on experiments and see the remarkable research facilities at OUS was invaluable.” Some students even expressed interest in pursuing doctoral studies at OUS.

 

During a lunch gathering, representatives from both universities exchanged views on promoting continued collaboration through educational and research exchanges. The training program concluded with a research exchange session, where eight OUS graduate students participated in poster presentations alongside the MU students, creating a lively platform for academic dialogue. The MU students also presented their learning outcomes from the week, reflecting their engagement and progress throughout the program.

 

OUS students found the exchange beneficial, noting, “Interacting with students from another country was a fantastic experience” and “Presenting our research in English was challenging, but incredibly rewarding.” This exchange program offered educational and academic enrichment for students from both universities.

 

Moving forward, OUS and MU look to strengthen their collaborative relationship, fostering a deeper partnership through continued academic and educational exchanges.

 

International Academic Exchange with Mapúa University, Philippines / Advanced Medical Materials Training Conducted at Okayama University of Science

Mapua University members with President Hirano (left) in a commemorative photo

International Academic Exchange with Mapúa University, Philippines / Advanced Medical Materials Training Conducted at Okayama University of Science

Experiencing various experiments

International Academic Exchange with Mapúa University, Philippines / Advanced Medical Materials Training Conducted at Okayama University of Science

Scenes from the Poster Session 1

International Academic Exchange with Mapúa University, Philippines / Advanced Medical Materials Training Conducted at Okayama University of Science

Scenes from the Poster Session 2

International Academic Exchange with Mapúa University, Philippines / Advanced Medical Materials Training Conducted at Okayama University of Science

Scenes from the Poster Session 3