ISW Program Held on February 3 to 7
The Graduate School of Dentistry hosted its “International Student Week (ISW)” program from February 3rd to 7th, welcoming six dental students from Taipei Medical University in Taiwan and Wonkwang University in South Korea.
ISW is a short-term training program for overseas dental students, which includes lectures and clinical observation at our Graduate School and Osaka University Dental Hospital. It offers valuable learning and practical experience opportunities for participating students.
On the first day, the program commenced with an orientation by Associate Professor Hata, followed by a welcome luncheon hosted by Professor Nishimura the Dean of the Graduate School. Afterward, Professor Murakami and other medical staff from the Department of Radiology led a tour of the hospital.
From the second day onwards, specialized training sessions commenced. The participating students visited various departments and clinics, deepening their knowledge through exposure to clinical practice and research. This time’s ISW featured eleven diverse programs, including a mini-lecture by Department of Dental Biomaterials, observation of operating rooms, and observation of outpatient pediatric dentistry.
During ISW, a welcome party was held with the participation of Osaka University dental students and international students. Students from Taipei Medical University and Wonkwang University introduced their respective universities, captivating the attention of the attendees. Afterward, souvenirs were distributed during free time, and the students quickly became friends and spent a joyful time together. Our school also provides overseas short-term training opportunities for sixth-year students, making this exchange event a valuable opportunity for students interested in overseas dental schools to connect with each other.
Upon completing the training program, students shared their reflections, expressing impressions like, “I had never imagined having the opportunity to observe Japanese dentistry firsthand in Japan. It was an amazing experience,” “I became interested in the application of AI in dentistry,” “The instructors were kind, and their guidance was clear and comprehensible.” and “I was delighted to make Japanese friends.” The connections made through intercultural exchange, in addition to the lectures and practical training, seem to have been a significant learning experience for the students.
The next ISW is scheduled for March, welcoming students from the University of Hong Kong.