ISW Program Held on March 9 to 13

We hosted this year’s final international student week (ISW) program from March 9 to 13. The program welcomed three students from the University of Hong Kong for an immersive five-day experience designed to introduce them to our university’s education, research, and clinical observation.

A warm star with orientation and a welcome lunch

ISW began with an orientation by Professor HATA (Dept. of Molecular and Cellular Biomaterials) followed by a welcome lunch hosted by Dean NAKANO. Professor TAKEDACHI from the Department of Periodontology and Regenerative Dentistry, who also serves as the ISW Working Group Leader, joined the lunch as well. The students from Hong Kong introduced unique features of their home university, and the relaxed atmosphere encouraged friendly and meaningful exchanges. The participants also asked the Dean questions about the characteristics of Japanese university education and showed particular interest in Professor TAKEDACHI’s field.

Exploring clinical facilities

In the afternoon, Professor MURAKAMI, Director of the Center for Global Oral Health, guided the students on a tour of the hospital facilities. The participants showed strong interest in the clinical environment and daily operations, comparing them with practices and systems in Hong Kong.

Specialized learning through lectures and clinical observation

From the second day onward, the program shifted to more specialized content, including lectures and clinical observation. The students engaged actively asking thoughtful questions and exchanging ideas-particularly during sessions introducing cutting-edge research and advanced techniques.

Exchange with undergraduate students

An exchange event with our undergraduate students was also held. Despite the spring break period, seven undergraduates and a research student joined the session to interact with the visiting students in English. The University of Hong Kong students also gave a presentation introducing their university, which drew strong interest and helped deepen mutual understanding.

Looking ahead

The next ISW is scheduled to begin next May in the next academic year. We will continue to create opportunities for international exchange through ISW and other initiatives, fostering dentists and researchers who can contribute and thrive in a global environment.