Implementing agency in India: Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL) , Ministry of Education.
2026 batch: 56 students (24 boys, 32 girls) + 4 supervisors; visit from 24‑30 May 2026 .
Selection basis in India: National Means‑cum‑Merit Scholarship (NMMS) for meritorious government school students.
Participating countries (May 2026): India, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa (besides Japan).
Total Indian participants (2016‑2025): 674 students + 96 supervisors.
Core objectives (JST): (1) Develop talented human resources; (2) Accelerate international brain circulation; (3) Promote continuous collaboration; (4) Strengthen S&T diplomacy.
Alignment with NEP 2020: Promotes experiential, holistic, and cross‑disciplinary learning.
Significance: Democratises global exposure, empowers young women in STEM, and strengthens India‑Japan ties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the Sakura Science Programme?
A: It is a youth exchange initiative of the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST). It invites talented young students and researchers from Asia and Africa to Japan for short‑term visits to experience advanced science, technology, and culture.
Q2: When did India join the Sakura Science Programme?
A: India joined in April 2016 . Since then, 674 Indian students and 96 supervisors have visited Japan under this programme.
Q3: Who implements the programme in India?
A: The Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL) under the Ministry of Education coordinates the Indian participation.
Q4: How are Indian students selected for the programme?
A: Students are selected from government schools based on their eligibility for the National Means‑cum‑Merit Scholarship (NMMS) Scheme . The selection aims to provide global exposure to talented children from economically weaker backgrounds.
Q5: What is the duration of the visit, and what do students do during their stay?
A: The visit typically lasts one week (for the 2026 batch: 24‑30 May). Students visit advanced laboratories, research institutions, technology hubs, and cultural heritage sites. They engage in hands‑on activities, interact with Japanese researchers, and experience the country's unique blend of tradition and innovation.