Tharaka University represents Kenya at the 15th HOPE Meeting
The objective of the 15th HOPE Meeting was to foster international collaboration and networking among participants while providing them with the opportunity to learn from leading figures in their respective fields.
Participants were divided into multinational and interdisciplinary teams and engaged in various activities, including team presentations on the theme of “Science and Society“. The presentations were aimed at addressing pressing global challenges such as those targeted by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Since its inception in 2008, HOPE Meetings organized by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) have been a platform for exceptional PhD students and young researchers to engage in interdisciplinary discussions with Nobel Laureates and other distinguished scientists
The 15th HOPE Meeting, held in Kyoto City from February 26th to March 1st, 2024, brought together the participants comprised about 20 PhD students and young researchers from the institutions in Japan and 80 were nominated by the Overseas Cooperating Institutions of the Asia-Pacific and Africa region; Australia, Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Israel, Kenya, Korea, Malaysia, Nepal, New Zealand, Philippines, Senegal, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, Vietnam. The meeting was officially opened by the president of Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), Sugino Tsuyoshi.
Following her nomination to attend the meeting by the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI), Tharaka University facilitated Dr. Fidelis Ngugi, a Senior Lecturer of Chemistry and the Dean, Faculty of Physical, Sciences, Engineering and Technology (FPET) to attend the meeting in Kyoto, Japan.
Participants visited three prominent research institutions in Kyoto City: CiRA (Center for iPS Cell Research and Application) at Kyoto University, iCeMS (Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences) at Kyoto University, and RIHN (Research Institute for Humanity and Nature). These visits provided valuable insights into cutting-edge research initiatives and fostered collaboration between participants and researchers
Participants were divided into multinational and interdisciplinary teams and engaged in various activities, including team presentations on the theme of “Science and Society“. The presentations were aimed at addressing pressing global challenges such as those targeted by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Cultural Visits
The cultural visit offered participants a chance to immerse themselves in Japan’s rich cultural heritage. It included a visit to Kinkaku-ji Temple and other famous tourist spots such as Ninna-ji Temple and Kitano Tenmangu Shrine.
Key Outcomes from the 15th HOPE Meeting
Interdisciplinary Learning: The Meeting fostered interdisciplinary discussions, that enabled participants to explore a wide range of scientific topics beyond their immediate areas of interest. This broadened participants’ perspectives and encouraged collaboration across disciplines, a crucial aspect of modern research.
Cutting-Edge Research Insights: Lectures by Nobel Laureates offered invaluable insights into groundbreaking research areas such as catalysis, cell cycle control, superconductivity, and neutrino oscillations. Participants gained firsthand knowledge of pioneering discoveries and emerging trends, inspiring them to push the boundaries of scientific inquiry in their own work.
Global Networking: The Meeting provided a unique opportunity for participants to build international networks with peers from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds. Such
networking opportunities are essential for fostering collaborations, sharing resources, and addressing global challenges collectively.
Bridge Building: The appointment of moderators to work with Nobel Laureates served as an effective bridge between participants and eminent lecturers. These moderators facilitated deeper understanding of lecture presentations and encouraged active participation through Q&A sessions and group discussions. This model of engagement enhanced the learning experience for all attendees.
Appreciation
Tharaka University would like to thank JSPS for successful organizing the 15th HOPE Meeting and NACOSTI for nominating Dr. Fidelis Ngugi from Tharaka University to represent Kenya in the 15th Hope Meeting.
