On May 29, 2025 (Thursday), 31 first-year students from the Tokyo Metropolitan High School of Science and Technology visited JIRCAS as part of their "Tsukuba Science Tour."

The Tokyo Metropolitan High School of Science and Technology has a specialized science and technology department designed to prepare students for higher education in STEM fields. The school emphasizes education that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and independence. This visit was organized as part of an SSH overnight training program, aimed at deepening students' interest in science and technology while experiencing innovative research environments, and providing insights for future career choices.

During the visit, students were introduced to JIRCAS's research activities and international collaborations. They also learned about the distinct characteristics of research conducted at universities, private enterprises, and national research institutes.

Next, Senior Researcher TSUTSUI Isao from the Fisheries Division gave a talk titled "Beyond the Shrimp We Eat," explaining the current state and challenges of shrimp aquaculture (intensive farming) in Southeast Asia. He introduced low-cost, simple, and sustainable technologies utilizing underutilized biological resources such as seaweed (juzumo) and shellfish to support small- and medium-sized shrimp farms struggling financially. He also discussed the challenges encountered in research and the importance of collaborating with researchers from different fields.

Students actively engaged in discussions, asking questions about shrimp farming in Southeast Asia and communication methods in international research settings. It is hoped that this visit will serve as an opportunity for students to deepen their interest in research, science, and technology as they move toward their future careers.

A short lecture video featuring Senior Researcher Tsutsui, titled "Taking on Shrimp Farming in Southeast Asia with a Weed-Like Tenacity!," is available on YouTube via the JIRCAS channel.
 

"Facing Challenges with the Spirit of a Weed! Shrimp Farming Research in Southeast Asia"