In a moment of immense pride for Odisha’s education sector, four exceptionally talented students from the state have returned from Japan after representing India at the highly acclaimed Sakura Science High School Program (SSHP) 2026.
Organised by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), the 10-day international science and cultural exchange programme concluded on May 31, 2026.
The selected students — hailing from diverse corners of Odisha — got the rare opportunity to immerse themselves in Japan’s world-class scientific ecosystem, interact with leading researchers, and experience cutting-edge innovations firsthand.
The Stars of Odisha
The four bright minds who made the state proud are:
- Vishnu Prasad Jena – BJBJSS, Bhubaneswar (Khordha)
- Shubham Nayak – Government High School, Koraput
- Shradhanjali Pattnaik – Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya, Oriya, Telkoi (Kendujhar)
- Adyasha Panda – Odisha Adarsha Vidyalaya, Rengali (Sambalpur)
During their stay, the students visited the vibrant cities of Tsukuba (Japan’s science city) and Asakusa in Tokyo. They actively participated in academic and cultural exchange programmes at the Shibaura Institute of Technology and Kashiwa Junior and Senior High School.
The itinerary also included inspiring lectures by Nobel laureates and renowned professors, laboratory visits to premier research institutions, and immersive experiences of Japan’s rich culture and technological excellence.
A Golden Opportunity
The Sakura Science High School Program is a flagship initiative by JST that invites bright high school students from across Asia to Japan for approximately one week. It aims to foster international friendship and nurture the next generation of global scientific talent. Indian participants are chosen from Class 10, 11, and 12 students above 15 years of age who demonstrate exceptional promise in science and technology.
The successful participation of these four students from Odisha not only highlights the growing quality of school education in the state but also serves as powerful inspiration for thousands of young learners across Odisha and India.
The Department of School and Mass Education has extended heartfelt congratulations to the students and wished them a bright and successful future.
This achievement reaffirms that talent from Odisha is ready to take on the world — one Sakura bloom at a time.
