On Tuesday, August 19, 2025, the Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS) welcomed 31 first- and second-year students from Gunma Prefectural Maebashi Girls’ Senior High School for the eighth session of the Future Science Talent Academy.
The school visits research institutes in Tsukuba Science City every year to give students opportunities to learn about international initiatives and cutting-edge science and technology, helping them deepen their interest in global issues and STEM fields, and to support their future career choices.
The visit began with a tour of the exhibits in the entrance hall, where students were introduced to the wide range of research conducted at JIRCAS. Many showed particular interest in the display of BNI (Biological Nitrification Inhibition) wheat and technologies for utilizing palm biomass in Southeast Asia. Seeing these real examples allowed them to understand how the production of familiar products such as wheat and palm oil relates to environmental sustainability.
Next, the students were given an overview of JIRCAS's research activities and international collaborative research, as well as an introduction to how research in the agriculture, forestry, and fisheries fields, which is being conducted in collaboration with partners from around the world, contributes to society. They then took time to reflect and discuss. In group discussions, they explored the relationship between research in these fields and the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals), engaging in lively conversations and sharing diverse perspectives through short presentations.
Next, a lecture titled “Career Paths Toward Becoming a Researcher and Overseas Experience: Research in Africa” was delivered by Dr. YAGETA Yoshie from the Social Sciences Division. Drawing on her own experiences, she spoke about the appeal and challenges of research, her work with NGOs and international organizations, and shared photos and stories from the field. Students listened attentively to her remarks on topics such as the importance of English proficiency, safety considerations while overseas, and how her family responded when she chose to work abroad.
Students were also highly interested in Dr. Yageta’s ongoing research in Africa, which examines how local farmers perceive soil fertility. After the lecture, she was asked an insightful question: “Can research findings from overseas also be applied in Japan?” She explained examples of using international genetic resources in crop improvement, cases of technology adaptation in Japan, and how understanding the knowledge and practices of farmers around the world can lead to further innovation and dissemination of new technologies.
Through this visit, students gained a deeper understanding of the social significance of science and technology and the importance of international cooperation. It was a valuable opportunity for them to reflect on their future paths and aspirations. JIRCAS will continue to provide opportunities for students to experience research first-hand and to foster the next generation of scientific talent by nurturing their interest in science and technology.
