By AIT Public Affairs
6 August 2024: The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) continues to uphold its commitment to “Learning across borders,” actively encouraging global student engagement and offering diverse opportunities for international exchanges. Recently, 11 students from AIT’s School of Engineering and Technology (SET) and School of Environment, Resources, and Development (SERD) participated in the esteemed Ochanomizu University Summer Program for Global Leaders 2024, held from July 18 to August 2, 2024.
With 231 participants from around the world, including 65 international students from 19 partner universities across 13 countries, the program provided a rich platform for exploring diverse perspectives and forging meaningful connections. The theme, “Subject-Based Course,” offered a blend of rigorous lectures and hands-on project work, with participants earning 4 credits upon successful completion.
Students could choose from three specialized sub-courses: “Natural Science: Basic Questions and Applications,” “Gender, Globalization, and Diversity in Contemporary Japan,” and “Exploring Human Life and Environmental Sciences.” Each course was thoughtfully designed to address key academic and societal issues, providing an in-depth exploration of the chosen field.
The project work, conducted in English, emphasized leadership development through collaborative, multicultural group activities. Alongside academic pursuits, students engaged in various cultural and exchange events, immersing themselves in Japanese culture while building international connections.
Dr. Sumana Shrestha, Director of the International Affairs Unit at the Office of International and Public Affairs (OIPA) at AIT, has been coordinating this summer program for the last 12 years. She emphasized that the program offers students a unique opportunity to enhance their leadership skills, expand their academic knowledge, and experience Japan’s rich culture. Dr. Shrestha noted that participants deepened their understanding of specialized fields, honed their leadership abilities through multicultural teamwork, and embraced cultural immersion, which broadened their global perspectives and contributed to their personal growth.
The program was immensely beneficial for AIT students, providing them with an unparalleled opportunity to expand their academic horizons, enhance their leadership skills, and immerse themselves in a new culture. Through a blend of rigorous coursework and cultural experiences, participants gained invaluable knowledge and forged lasting international connections, all of which contributed significantly to their personal and professional growth.
Participants Experience
Dipika Trivedi, Food Engineering and Bioprocess Technology, SERD
“Spending summer at Ochanomizu University in Tokyo was an unforgettable experience. I am incredibly thankful to AIT for giving me this opportunity. The program sparked my intellectual curiosity, especially through discussions on global challenges like food security and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Engaging lectures from leaders like Ms. Kiyono Yagami and Ms. Mihoko Manabe made me rethink gender equality and leadership in a global context. Beyond academics, the cultural immersion was equally enriching. Exploring traditional Japanese theater, participating in a drumming workshop, and touring Kamakura’s historic sites deepened my understanding of Japan’s rich culture. This experience wasn’t just about learning—it was about embracing a new culture, building lasting connections, and creating memories I will cherish forever.”
Wintachai Paweeta, Structural Engineering, SET
“My summer at Ochanomizu University in Tokyo was an experience I will never forget. We had numerous opportunities to explore science in everyday life and gain insights into Japanese culture. Visiting the National Science Park allowed us to explore cutting-edge technologies and their impact on everyday life, while exploring Asakusa let us witness Japan’s rich cultural heritage through its old temples. We also made onigiri, a traditional Japanese rice ball, which was both fun and educational, and participated in a Kyogen workshop, learning the art of traditional Japanese theater. This summer was a perfect blend of learning and cultural immersion. I am deeply grateful for the invaluable knowledge and global network of friends I gained, and I thank AIT making it possible.”
Participating Students:
Exploring Human Life and Environmental Sciences:
- Dipika Trivedi (SERD)
- Sameera Sandaruwan Yakdehi Kankanamge (SERD)
- Myat Thinzar Lin (SERD)
- Mriganka Kaustab Talukdar (SERD)
- Pricilla Faye Tanquerido Simon (SET)
Gender, Globalization, and Diversity in Contemporary Japan:
- Naduni Madumali Wasala Mudiyanselage (SERD)
Japanese Language Course:
- Eain Dray Aung (SERD)
Natural Science: Basic Questions and Applications:
- Wintachai Paweeta (SET)
- Ablat Beatriz Nicolle Oppus (SET)
- Hanyu Jing (SET)
- Kysiah Dalisay Putalan (SET)
