Jaquelyn G. Ampo, a senior student in the Bachelor of Science in Fisheries program at the School of Marine Fisheries and Technology, MSU at Naawan, was selected to participate in the prestigious Science Sakura Exchange Program. Sponsored by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) and hosted by the University of Tokyo, Japan, the program took place from October 21 to 25, 2024. This remarkable opportunity promoted international scientific exchange and collaboration, providing a platform for emerging scientists like Jaquelyn to engage with cutting-edge research.

The five-day program featured an intensive schedule of lectures, presentations, and field visits, all aimed at deepening participants’ knowledge of bioresource and environmental sciences. It began at the Asian Research Center for Bioresource and Environmental Sciences (ARC-BRES) at Yayoi Campus, where participants received an overview of the Science Sakura Exchange Program. The first day featured research presentations on topics such as vegetation rehabilitation and stress adaptation using mycorrhizal fungi, the distribution and physiological ecology of harmful microalgae, sustainable crop production, and advancements in genome editing.

On the second day, participants attended research presentations and discussions at ARC-BRES, followed by a session with the Office of International Cooperation and Exchange (OICE), which broadened Jaquelyn’s exposure to global collaborative efforts in bioresource sciences.

Subsequent days included a visit to Tanashi Campus in Nishitokyo, where Jaquelyn and other participants toured the laboratories of Host Professor Chunlan Lian and engaged in research discussions. They also visited the Institute for Sustainable Agro-ecosystem Services (ISAS), ARC-BRES, and the University of Tokyo Tanashi Forest (UTTF), gaining valuable insights into sustainable environmental practices and agro-ecosystems.

The program culminated with a visit to the Yamanakako Campus and the Fuji Iyashinomori Woodland Resource Center (FIWRC), followed by a closing ceremony.

Jaquelyn’s participation in this esteemed exchange program reflects the dedication and hard work of MSU at Naawan students, showcasing their potential to contribute to the international academic community. Her involvement is expected to inspire fellow students and further strengthen MSU Naawan’s global engagements in fisheries and environmental sciences.