Yamagata, Japan – February 16, 2026 — Eighteen members of the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), consisting of 2 faculty members and 16 students, are participating in the Sakura Science Program 2026 hosted by Yamagata University, Japan. Several participants are funded by the Japan Sakura Science Program 2026, an international initiative designed to strengthen scientific collaboration and academic exchange between Japan and partner countries.
This program represents a significant step in expanding international cooperation in the fields of molecular biology, ecology, and biodiversity research, while providing participants with direct academic experience in a global research environment.
Academic Preparation Prior to Departure
The program began with an online preparatory session on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, delivered by Prof. Jun Yokoyama of Yamagata University. In this session, Prof. Yokoyama introduced the geographical characteristics and environmental conditions of Yamagata City, offering ecological context for the upcoming field and laboratory activities.
The session was followed by an introductory lecture on plant DNA extraction techniques, which will serve as the foundation for laboratory practice during the program.
Participants departed from Indonesia on Sunday, February 15, 2026, and arrived at Narita International Airport on the same day before continuing their journey to Yamagata.
Day One: Opening Lectures and Intensive Academic Sessions
The official program commenced on Monday, February 16, 2026, with an opening lecture by Prof. Jun Yokoyama, Program Manager of the Sakura Science Program at Yamagata University. He outlined the agenda for the seven-day program, running through February 22, 2026, which includes:
- Thematic lectures and academic discussions
- DNA extraction laboratory practice
- Phylogenetic tree construction
- Student presentations
- Visits to museums
- A field excursion to Mount Gassan
The academic atmosphere continued with a lecture by Prof. Yutaka Miyazawa, who presented on plant physiology, particularly the phenomenon of root hydrotropism — the directional growth response of plant roots to moisture gradients. His lecture enriched participants’ understanding of plant adaptation mechanisms to environmental conditions.
Following the morning sessions, participants enjoyed lunch at the university cafeteria, experiencing Japanese cuisine and campus culture as part of their international academic immersion.
Exploring Asian Insect Biodiversity
The afternoon session featured a lecture by Prof. Naoyuki Fujiyama, who discussed Asian insect biodiversity, with special emphasis on herbivorous lady beetles in Indonesia. He highlighted the application of DNA sequencing data in biodiversity studies and in determining the phylogenetic relationships of Indonesian herbivorous beetles.
The first day concluded with a lecture by Dr. Taisuke Kanao, focusing on termite diversity and the ecological roles of social insects in various ecosystems.
Strengthening Global Collaboration
The first day of Sakura Science Program 2026 was marked by enthusiastic participation and intensive academic exchange. Beyond enhancing scientific knowledge and laboratory skills, the program fosters stronger international collaboration between the Faculty of Biology UGM and Yamagata University.
Through this initiative, both institutions aim to deepen research partnerships, particularly in molecular biology, biodiversity, and ecological studies across East and Southeast Asia.
