From August 21 to 27, Okayama University implemented the Non-Research Overseas Training Program (Summer, Sydney) as part of the Okayama University Support for Pioneering Research Initiated by the Next Generation (OU-SPRING) initiative. Five OU-SPRING fellows enrolled in the doctoral program participated in this training.

This program aims to cultivate international and interdisciplinary perspectives by enabling participants to experience Australia’s multicultural society and its harmonious relationship with nature, as well as engage with people who come from diverse cultural, academic, and professional backgrounds. The training also provides an opportunity for students to broaden their views and deepen their thinking about long-term career development.

During the program, participants visited laboratories and interacted with students at the University of Sydney and the University of New South Wales. They also had opportunities for further learning through activities such as a meeting with Mr. WATANABE Takayuki, Managing Director of the JETRO Sydney Office, and a special lecture by Dr. Lauren Cole at the Taronga Institute of Science and Learning.

Reflecting on the program, Mr. Sato (3rd year, Doctoral Program, Graduate School of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology) commented:
“Although this program was designed to focus on career development, it also served as a valuable opportunity for self-reflection. By immersing myself in an environment where I became a minority in terms of language and culture, I realized how much one can learn through such experiences.”

Okayama University will continue to enhance its curriculum to develop fundamental skills that enable students to respond flexibly and strategically to societal needs. Through job-based research internships, overseas programs, and the promotion of cross-cultural experiences, the university will support OU-SPRING fellows in strengthening their transferable skills, human competencies, and project management abilities.

・About OU-SPRING:
Okayama University established the Okayama University Fellowship for Science and Technology Innovation (OU Fellowship) to foster young researchers who will drive research in the university’s top priority fields and to cultivate future leaders in Japan’s science, technology, and innovation sectors. Since FY2024, this fellowship has been newly implemented as the Okayama University Support for Pioneering Research Initiated by the Next Generation (OU-SPRING).

The vision of OU-SPRING is to develop highly specialized human resources—knowledge workers—who possess advanced expertise in knowledge, research capability, and technical skills, as well as human skills such as creativity, social awareness, communication, and leadership. The program aims to nurture professionals who can contribute to social change not only in academia but also in industry and local communities. The Non-Research Overseas Training Program introduced this year will continue to be held annually to cultivate diverse perspectives.

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