Bhubaneswar: The Union Education Ministry has flagged off a delegation of 56 Indian students and four supervisors for the Sakura Science Programme 2026 in Japan, aimed at promoting scientific learning, innovation, and international exposure among school students.
The programme, organised by the Japan Science and Technology Agency, will be held from May 24 to May 30 and includes student participants from India, Ghana, Nigeria, and South Africa.
The Indian delegation consists of 24 boys and 32 girls selected from government schools across 15 states and Union Territories, including Odisha. The students were chosen under the National Means cum Merit Scholarship Scheme based on academic merit and performance.
Senior officials from National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) and the Department of School Education and Literacy attended the flag-off ceremony held in New Delhi.
During the programme, students will gain firsthand exposure to Japan’s advanced science, technology, research, and innovation ecosystem. The visit also includes cultural exchange activities and interactions designed to familiarise participants with Japanese educational practices and technological advancements.
Officials said the initiative seeks to encourage scientific curiosity, experiential learning, and international collaboration among young students while strengthening global educational partnerships.
India has been participating in the Sakura Science Programme since 2016. More than 674 Indian students have already visited Japan under the initiative, which aims to broaden global learning opportunities and inspire future innovation among school students.
-OdishaAge
