Report on the Super Science High School (SSH) Study Programme in Singapore 2026

From 3 to 7 March 2026, Nagoya University Global Campus (NUGC) welcomed 15 students from three Super Science High School (SSH) institutions in Aichi Prefecture—Ichinomiya Senior High School, Gojō Senior High School, and Nagoya Senior High School—for a five-day study programme in Singapore.

The programme was designed to broaden students’ perspectives on scientific research, international career pathways, and cross-cultural engagement through lectures, institutional visits, and interactive sessions with researchers and academics in Singapore.

Day 1 — 3 March 2026

The students’ arrival in Singapore marked the beginning of the programme

   Day 2 — 4 March 2026

Science Diplomacy and Global Research Cooperation

The programme opened with a lecture by Ms. Reiko Yuguchi from the Japan Science and Technology Agency, introducing the concept of science diplomacy and its role in addressing global challenges. The session also highlighted how policy and international cooperation shape the direction of scientific innovation, encouraging students to reflect on the broader societal responsibilities of researchers.

Research Careers at RIKEN

Building on this perspective, Dr. Yukiko Yamaguchi from RIKEN provided insights into professional research environments, including laboratory structure and operations, as well as key competencies required of researchers such as experimental rigour, collaboration, and cross-cultural communication. Drawing on perspectives from the RIKEN Singapore Office, the session also illustrated how researchers operate within international contexts. It concluded with an engaging Q&A on research careers and graduate study pathways.

Academic Exchange with NUS Japanese Studies

Extending these ideas into a cross-cultural academic setting, in collaboration with the Department of Japanese Studies at the National University of Singapore, the group joined an academic workshop exploring cultural identity and Japan’s evolving role in a globalised world.

A highlight of the session was a lecture by Professor Hiroshi Imaizumi, Director of Nagoya University Global Campus (Singapore), which examined contemporary Japan in the context of the AI era, encouraging students to consider how cultural identity can remain distinctive amid rapid technological change.

Students also introduced their schools and SSH research activities, engaging in active discussion and exchange with the NUS community. The session fostered a dynamic academic environment, prompting reflection on the relationship between science, culture, and innovation.

The session was supported by Ms. Lim Beng Choo, Head of the Department of Japanese Studies, Mr. Benjamin Goh, Teaching Assistant, and Mr. Irvin Jerome Ho from the NUS Japanese Studies Society (JSS).

   Day 3 — 5 March 2026

Participants followed their own programmes based on individual academic interests.

   Day 4 — 6 March 2026

Introduction to Singapore’s Multicultural Society

Shifting focus to the broader social context, an interactive session facilitated by Ms. Eugena Lim from Nagoya University Global Campus (Singapore) introduced Singapore’s social and cultural landscape, including its national symbols and the multicultural fabric that shapes everyday life.

Through videos, a Kahoot quiz, and puzzle-based activities, students explored themes such as language policy, social harmony, and civic values. The interactive format encouraged active participation and prompted comparisons with their own experiences in Japan, deepening their understanding of how multiculturalism shapes national identity.

Living and Studying in Singapore

Complementing this perspective, a guest session by Ms. Natsuko Kawasumi, a student in Industrial and Systems Engineering at the National University of Singapore and NUS College, shared first-hand experiences of studying and living in Singapore. Drawing on her own experience as a Japanese student abroad, she offered insights into daily life, academic challenges, and adapting to a multicultural environment.

Discussions on communication, community-building, and cross-cultural adjustment encouraged students to reflect on their own adaptability, as well as the importance of resilience and empathy in an international setting.

Research Presentations at A*STAR

Bringing together the academic and cross-cultural insights gained throughout the programme, at the Agency for Science, Technology and Research, each student presented their individual SSH research project, followed by feedback on experimental design, analytical thinking, and scientific communication. The session provided valuable experience in presenting research and engaging in in-depth discussion with researchers.

Through interactions with researchers in Singapore, students also observed a strong emphasis on global perspectives and societal impact, offering a contrast to more curiosity-driven approaches often seen in Japan. This insight deepened their understanding of the challenges and opportunities in international research collaboration.

Through this programme, students gained first-hand exposure to Singapore’s dynamic research environment and multicultural society, while developing key skills in critical thinking, scientific communication, and cross-cultural understanding. The experience also encouraged reflection on future academic pathways and opportunities for international study and research.

Nagoya University Global Campus (Singapore) remains committed to supporting the next generation of globally minded students and researchers by creating opportunities that connect them with diverse perspectives, real-world research environments, and international academic communities.