English Top » Study in Japan » Follow-up Services for International Students who studied in Japan » Follow-up Research Fellowship » Reports for FY 2008
This page is for the purpose of introducing Fellows and their research activities under this program, their memories during study in Japan, etc.
Name (Nationality/ Hosted by)
<Profile>
Nationality: Indonesia
Educational Background in Japan:
April 1999 - March 2001
Graduate school of Education, Aichi University of Education (Master)
Major Field: Linguistics
Present Institution / Status: Univerity of Muhammadiyah Malang / Teacher
<Follow-up Research Fellowship>
Period: December 25, 2008 - March 23, 20089 (89 days)
Host University: Aichi University of Education
Research Topic: Politeness Across Culture
Outline and Results of Research:
My research focuses on the cultural gaps encountered by Indonesian students who are studying in Japan. Specifically, it attempts to identify Indonesian students’ behaviors that are considered impolite by Japanese lecturers. I found out that most Japanese lecturers think Indonesian students act properly through their interaction with them. Only a small number of lecturers pointed out that behaviors such as leaving the office without thanking them and facing the lecturer’s eyes or faces while speaking to them are impolite. Those behaviors, however, are tolerable for most of the Japanese lecturers who collaborated with me on my project.
Impression of this program:
I think this program is very useful for us, the alumni of Japanese universities. After living and studying in Japan for several years, we go back to our home countries and try to implement our study results as well as other valuable experiences in Japan. However, after a while, we face certain problems which necessitates further study back in Japan. Personally, I have gained a lot from this program. My research results will be useful for prospective researchers, as well as nursing stuff who are coming to work in old people’s homes in Japan.
<Study in Japan>
There are two main reasons why I chose Japan for my higher study; one is that Japan is a highly developed country, and the other is Japan is an Asian country. Being in an Asian country, I was sure that Japan had some similarities with my country alongside many differences. Being a modern and developed country, Japan has much to offer to people from other developing countries. We have a lot to learn from Japan’s past experiences. Living in Japan greatly enriched my expertise and knowledge, which is useful for my career. It is my hope that I can keep in contact with my professor and colleagues from Japan after I return to my country. I would like to invite them to come to my country to do research or give lectures at my university. If possible, I hope to establish a cooperative relationship between University of Muhammadiyah Malang and Aichi University of Education.
<Profile>
Nationality: China
Educational Background in Japan:
January 1992 - March 1993
Institute of Geoscience University of Tsukuba (Research Student)
April 1993 - March 1996
Institute of Geoscience University of Tsukuba (P.h.D)
Major Field: Geography and Hydrology
Present Institution / Status: The Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research (IGSNRR), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) / Professor
<Follow-up Research Fellowship>
Period: December 1, 2008 - February 28, 2008 (90days)
Host University: Chiba University
Research Topic: Sino-Japan comparative study on changes of water environment and water quality
Outline and Results of Research:
China is currently facing many serious environmental problems such as air and water pollution, the negative side effects of its rapid economic growth. Especially, water pollution becames worse and worse in lakes (the Taihu Lake, the Chaohu Lake, the Dianchi Lake), rivers in northeastern and northern China which is short of water resources (the Liaohe River, the Haihe River), and rivers with small gradient (the Huaihe River).
Water quality is particularly poor in the Huaihe River Basin, a rapid economic developing region in China. With a total area of 270,000 square meters, there are 165 million (2000) people living in the basin. The population density is 4.8 times higher than the national average. Based on the results of water quality measured several years ago, it was found that the Huaihe River was the most polluted one among China’s seven largest rivers.
A total of 11,000 dams and other flood control facilities like diversion weirs and floodgates have been built by 2000 to protect flat, low lands along the river from flood disaster and make social and economic development possible in the region. These facilities do perform functions of flood control and water resources development properly. However, the wrong operations also raised serious effects on the region’s water environment in the last decades.
For example, when a heavy flood struck the region in July 1994, discharge of water from dams brought pollutants in sediment of river channel downstream. It became one of notorious incidents of water pollution in China, which not only impacted water quality and the eco-system in the region, but also caused serious health problems for many local residents.
Japan has had the similar environmental problems caused by local industries in a fast-growing economy. Such problems are likely to occur in regions along many rivers in China such as the Huaihe River and in other developing countries of Asia. However, lessons from Japan’s experiences cannot be applied automatically to other Asian countries with the acceleration of economic globalization. Since pollution due to economic development began from decades ago in Japan which was more earlier than other Asian nations when these countries started experiencing the same problem. As a result Japanese and Chinese researchers are working together to study the problem of deteriorating water quality in the Huaihe Basin.
This joint study between Japanese and Chinese researchers tried to figure out ways to solve the problems of deteriorating water quality in the Huaihe Basin and the following issues are focused.
a) What kind of measures should be taken to identify the causes of water pollution in the region?
b) What kind of effects of water utilization structures have on the local eco-system and environment?
c) How the water-utilization structures should be operated to ensure the repair of the damaged eco-system and improvement in water quality?
At first, the study listed the problems of the Huaihe Basin and the pollution reasons were found out. Then issues related to necessary technologies and environmental restoration were discussed and the recommendations measurement for sustainable water management were made.
Main Achievements:
1) Management of effluences with an environmental impact of water utilization structures was designed to protect the eco-system and water environment in the Huaihe Basin.
2) Development of a GIS-based water environment management model was built to research the water quality and eco-systems at the typical sites in the Huaihe Basin.
3) Demonstration of the possibility of effective water resources management and eco-system preservation was made in the special part of the river of the Huaihe Basin.
Impression of this program:
This program enabled me to take part in the joint research when I studied the Japan’s state-of-the-art technologies related to water environment under the guidance of Professor Tang Changyuan who are in the Faculty of Horticulture, Chiba University.
Of these years it is the first time for me to engage in academic research on Japanese culture and environment for an extended period of time. Prof. Tang’s lab which has made many achievements attracts many talented students. It is very popular not only in Chiba University but also in the whole Japanese academic community. I would like to take this opportunity to express my great gratitude to Prof. Tang and other teachers and I also would like to thank administrative staff members of Chiba University who kindly supported my research. My gratitude also goes to JASSO, which is a very good system. I hope it will grow and expand in future.
<Study in Japan>
After graduating from Heibei College of Geology, where I studied with the major of hydrogeology and applied geology, I was employed by Jiaozuo Mining Institute. Soon after, I entered Changchun College of Geology and obtained the master’s degree in hydrogeology field there. Then, I engaged mainly in education and research related to mine flood prevention. At that time I was also thinking about boarding my research field to become a better-qualified researcher. During that time, Prof. Sun, one of my senior colleagues, came back to China after studying in Japan for two and a half years. Thanks to the recommendation of Prof. Sun’s and Prof. Isamu Kayane at the University of Tsukuba, an internationally famous expert in hydrogeology, I was allowed to go to Japan and study in the University of Tsukuba as a Japanese government (Monbukagakusho: MEXT) scholarship student.
Memories and Impression about Japan
Initially, I was a little nervous because it was my first overseas trip and even my first flight. However, there was scarcely trouble when I landed in Narita airport and arrived in Japan. I was picked up at the airport by Maki Tsujimura, a senior researcher at the same lab and currently an associate professor at the University of Tsukuba, and Mr. Liu, currently professor at the China Academy of Meteorological Sciences.
We went to the Tsukuba Science City by taxi and railway. I couldn’t see the landscape since it was night. The two senior researchers made me feel relaxed because of their kindness.
I started my studying life at the university at the following day. I spent most of my time at the experiment room, the lab and my dormitory room while enjoying a good natural environment and good human relationships.
Under the guidance of my supervisor, I chose underground water and water cycle in Sri Lanka as the topic for my research.
While learning about new approaches and technologies of the research, I made overseas trips and attended several academic conferences. During the time of the four years of research at the university, I experienced both frustrating failures and exciting successes before obtaining a Doctor of Science degree. I really enjoyed my life of research in Japan. Here I would like to thank my excellent instructors, great senior researchers and kindly juniors.
Cooperation with Japan after Returning to My Country
When I came back to China I got a job at the Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the leading institute for water research in China. I have been involved in academic exchanges between Japanese and Chinese universities and research institutions in the areas of water cycle and water environment, including the University of Tsukuba, Chiba University, Aichi University, Kumamoto University, the National Institute for Environmental Studies, and the National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster Prevention and Hiroshima University. I visit Japan three times a year on average for international conferences, academic exchanges and other occasions.
<Profile>
Nationality: Indonesia
Educational Background in Japan:
April 2000 - March 2003
Graduate School of Engineering, Gunma University (Doctor)
Major Field: Polymer
Present Institution / Status: Centre for Research and development of isotopes and radiation Technology-National Unclear Energy Agency (Batan) / Senior Researcher
<Follow-up Research Fellowship>
Period: December 1, 2008 - February 28, 2008 (90days)
Host University: Gunma University
Research Topic: Irradiation effect on edible films from modified starch (Moluccas Sago)
Outline and Results of Research:
Edible films are an emerging technology which produces increasing interest. They can be used as food coatings with the objective of extending shelf life, minimizing changes in aroma, taste, texture, appearance or improving handling characteristics. One of the uses of edible films is as carriers of antimicrobials, antioxidants and other additives which are used for food preservation. Moluccas sago is a starch extracted from the pith of sago palm stems, it is attractive because it is a cheap material and abundant. The radiation was carried out to observe the effect of irradiation on degradation of edible film produced from Moluccas sago. The results shown that Moluccas sago can be used as edible film with appropriate properties.
Impression of this program:
The research follow-up program for former international students is meaningful and precious because it is a good chance to follow the recent research topics in the world especially in Japan and an excellent opportunity to conduct short-term research on our own research topics with academic advisors at Japanese universities. Coming back to Japan on this program also affords the chance to upgrade our knowledge, acquire new skills, access to information such as reference materials as well as renewing contacts and acquaintances.
<Study in Japan>
I have special impression about Japanese cultures, manners and Japan natures. In my impression the Japanese are polite, hardworking and accommodating. I learned many things from this country, it was not only academic, scientific and technology matters but also Japanese cultures, manners and Japan natures. The country is full of beautiful natures, Especially Fujiyama where I have ever been on the top of the mountain. After returning home, I continuously have contact with Professor in Gunma University and researchers in JAEA (The Research Institute where I conducted Ph.D. experiments). Sometimes Principal Researchers from Japan come to our Research Institute for teaching us. I maintain contacts with the friends and colleagues from Japan and other countries which I have known during my study in Japan, we are continuing networks and collaborations.
<Profile>
Nationality: Ghana
Educational Background in Japan:
January 1993 - March 1994
Graduate School of Agriculture, Iwate University (Research Student)
April 1994 - March 1996
Graduate School of Agriculture, Iwate University (Master)
April 1996 - March 1999
United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Iwate University (Doctor)
Major Field: Soil Science and Nutrition
Present Institution / Status: University of Ghana / Senior Lecturer
<Follow-up Research Fellowship>
Period: October 2, 2008 - December 30, 2008 (90days)
Host University: Iwate University
Research Topic: Relationship between Cd absorption of the plants and form of Cd in acid Cd-contaminated soil
Outline and Results of Research:
Mining activities in Japan in the past have led to pollution of water and soil bodies with heavy metals. Various mechanical and chemical methods have been used to remediate contaminated soils and rivers to various degrees of success. Recently, phytoremediation of contaminated soils has become popular for many reasons including its relatively lower cost and environmental friendliness. Preliminary studies in my host laboratory have shown that some soils of Northern Miyagi are contaminated with Cd and that Arum (Colocasia antiquorum) could be used for its phytoextraction The results of my study during the JASSO Fellowship have confirmed these preliminary reports.
Impression of this program:
JASSO has given me the opportunity to study about heavy metal pollution in soils and phytoremediation. Hitherto, I have not had the practical experience of applying my knowledge in soil science to heavy metal contamination in soils and their phytoextraction. My study under this program has given me a future research direction. Ghana has a lot of mining activities going on with some indication of pollution of the environment. Also, a lot of environmental pollution comes from automobiles due to inappropriate maintenance. My study here has therefore given me the skills needed to research into heavy metal pollution in Ghana.
<Study in Japan>
a. Why I chose to study in Japan
I was impressed about the technological development of Japan. I therefore chose to study in Japan so as to know about the foundation of the country’s development.
b. Memories and Impression about Japan
I had a wonderful opportunity to meet foreign students from many countries with different cultures during the period I studied in Japan. I also made several Japanese friends who helped me to understand the culture of Japan. Thus, my interactions with other foreign students and Japanese friends and also my excursions to many cultural sites have enriched my appreciation of diversity of humanity and nature.
c. Relationship with Japan after returning to Ghana
Soon after I had returned to Ghana in 1999, I was fortunate to win a 90 days STA Fellowship to study at the Remote Sensing Technology Center of Japan in Tokyo. Unfortunately, there has not been any such communication with Iwate University.
<Profile>
Nationality: Kenya
Educational Background in Japan:
April, 1996 - March, 1998
Graduate School of Agriculture and Biological Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University (Master)
April, 1998 - March, 2001
Graduate School of Agriculture and Biological Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University (Doctor)
Major Field: Landscape Planning and Conservation
Present Institution / Status: Jomo Kenyatta University / Lecturer
<Follow-up Research Fellowship>
Period: July 2, 2008 - September 29, 2008 (90days)
Host University: Kyoto University
Research Topic: Landscape Planning Approach for Ecosystem Management
Outline and Results of Research:
In order to study changes in landscape characteristics of the traditional Japanese satoyama landscape aerial photographs of Omi and Ashiu regions of Kyoto prefecture, acquired between 1947 and 2003 were processed. Using Erdas Imagine and ArcGIS software, images were pre-processed, georeferenced, mosaicked and supervised classification done. Pixels of evergreen and deciduous forests separated better than for deciduous forests, grasslands and paddy fields. DEM analysis, delineated large and small watersheds ranging from 4300 to 200 ha. Previous paddy fields were converted to forest or grassland, increasing forest coverage. Further ground truthing and refining classification system may improve results.
Impression of this program:
The research follow-up program for former international students was a timely and wonderful idea. It has provided a very good opportunity for re-connecting with my first foreign country and the kind people. Meeting again with my former academic advisors has helped much in reviewing my research activities, improving on techniques and developing new areas of collaboration. During this period I have been able to access and make use of various research facilities and literature which was not easy after I returned to my home country. With much appreciation, the program was very beneficial and appropriately planned.
<Study in Japan>
Lessons learnt early in my Geography classes about Japan, as a mountainous island country, with active volcanoes, urbanized and technologically advanced implanted an urge for my wish to one day evidence these facts. And when the opportunity arose through a MEXT scholarship, everything appeared unique, from the landscape to culture that forms an interesting combination of highly urban settings and very serene rural settings that, added to my interests in landscape studies. After my first study period in Japan, I maintained contacts with my professors and friends and this remotely kept me in touch with Japan. We plan to collaborate more in research and establish exchange programs between our universities to sustain a strong relationship for development.
<Profile>
Nationality: Pakistan
Educational Background in Japan:
April, 1997 - March, 2001
Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University (Doctor)
Major Field: Plant Genetic Resources Technology
Present Institution / Status: Plant Genetic Resources Program, National Agricultural Research Center, Islamabad / Senior Scientific Officer
<Follow-up Research Fellowship>
Period: June 9, 2008 - September 6, 2008 (90days)
Host University: Kyushu University
Research Topic: Evaluation of rice genetic resources for effective utilization in grain quality improvement
Outline and Results of Research:
Starch properties are important component of rice cooking quality. Pakistan is a major grower of indica rices including Basmati group. Basmati and non-basmati rice accessions belonging to Pakistan rice genetic resources, were compared for variation in starch properties to indica type IR36 and japonica type Kinmaze and T65. Starch branching chain length distribution was studied by modified Park Johnson method and analyzed using capillary electrophoresis system accompanied with laser induced fluorescence detection. Data suggest that Basmati as a group maintain close association for chain length distribution, which is different from indica type IR36 rice and the japonica type rice Kinmaze. The data will be helpful in selecting breeding material or parental lines for the development of new varieties.
Impression of this program:
When I applied for this program, I was very much excited about visiting my Professors, colleagues and the Laboratory, however, I was concerned about if these 90 days would be sufficient to carry out my research. Now at the end of my program I believe that former students who did not avail this wonderful oppertunity have missed not only the oppertunity to revive their memories of Japan (cultural and environmental beauty), further strengthen the relatonship with their mentors and colleagues but missed the chance to testify and gain from the technological advancement. Now I am returning home much confident to have learnt new techniques to improve my research. My discussions with professors and viewing the ongoing reseaarch activities have also expand my vision to new avenues to persue research. My program visit was both memorable and beneficial.
<Study in Japan>
1- At our institute (Plant Genetic Resources Program) in Islamabad, Pakistan, we had many Japanese scientist/researchers working and teaching us techniques. I was very much impressed with their politeness, and commitment, besides their professional skills. Everyday on teatime we used to discuss about Japan and Pakistan, then in 1994 I got an opportunity to attend a short training in Tsukuba. It was my very good experience of living and learning in Japan, so JICA provided me first opportunity then later I pursued to study doctor course from Kyushu University (1997-2001) supported by MEXT, Japan.
2- Though I regret missing the beautiful event of Sakura, I really enjoyed the Fire-work. I like flowers and nature very much and it’s very good that Japanese take care and have love for nature, environment and flowers. I hope people of my country also get awareness for these issues.
When I visited Japan I was very much impressed with the beauty of Fuji san, it has a majestic appearance and a unique amongst many mountains I have seen, each view is capture-able. It’s a nature’s gifted blessing to this land
Each society has many dimensions, so in case of Japan/Japanese society too, it would be difficult to highlight one, but what I felt about the people that they are very polite (though shy too) and try to help if possible even though they are busy.
The society is peaceful and respectful (to humanity, seniors and nature; and I believe that social advancement is better than technical advancement, but I saw both here)
Everybody is committed to duty untiringly.
It seems like justice prevails in the society, which we don’t find in the third world and developing countries.
3- The long standing relationship has further strengthened. I am looking forward for my Professors to visit my laboratory in Islamabad, Pakistan, to see the research going-on. I would like to work on joint research program. I as a member actively participate in activities of MEXT Alumni Association of Pakistan (MAAP). Through this forum we undertake activities to develop and strengthen ties between Japan and Pakistan. We also encourage students to study in Japan by providing information and guidelines on living and studying in Japan. I am sure that with the passage of time our relationship with Japan will grow stronger.