The Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) conducted the selection process for the Sakura Science Program 2027 on Thursday, 1 October 2026, and Friday, 2 October 2026. The program is part of the international collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Yamagata University, Japan, aimed at providing students with opportunities to enhance their academic knowledge, research experience, and cultural understanding.
The program received enthusiastic interest, with a total of 65 applicants participating in the selection process. Following the selection, 16 students were selected to participate in the Sakura Science Program 2027. Among them, 8 students will receive scholarships, while the remaining 8 students will participate under the self-funded scheme.
The eight scholarship recipients are Alissa Vanya Anindita, Hanania Hafuza Safaraz, Collin Andrew Rhemrev, Hanifah Arraihanah, Namira Aliyandari, Karina Raihana Salsabila, Ariadne Etisha Margaronis, and Mochammad Zaky Jauhariel Irsyadi.
Meanwhile, the students selected under the self-funded scheme are Shalomitha Lydia Sharon, Divya Rafiifah Anindita, Nadine Kayla Syafira, Anisa Ramadhani, Nadia Anandita Hidayat, Tobias Dominic Immanuel, Erdziva Syifa Ivanka, and Reynard Nafis Ihsanhadi.
The Sakura Science Program is an annual program that provides students with opportunities to gain academic and cultural experiences in Japan. In 2027, the program will take place from 15–23 February 2027 at Yamagata University, Japan.
During the program, participants will gain hands-on academic and research experiences in the field of biology. One of the key academic activities will be an opportunity to experience DNA sequencing in the laboratories of the Faculty of Science, Yamagata University. In addition to laboratory and academic activities, participants will also have the opportunity to experience the Japanese winter, while learning about local life and culture.
Through the Sakura Science Program 2027, the Faculty of Biology UGM hopes that participants will gain new knowledge and research experiences while broadening their international perspectives, developing networks with the academic community in Japan, and strengthening their ability to adapt to different academic and cultural environments.
The program also serves as an important platform for the strengthening of academic and international collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Yamagata University, while promoting knowledge and cultural exchange between Indonesia and Japan. As an annual program, the Sakura Science Program is expected to continue providing valuable opportunities for students to gain international exposure and develop competencies that will support their future careers in biology and the sciences.
