(ii) Special programs
Program for JDS fellows
The JDS Master’s Program is filled with a number of extracurricular activities that inspire you academically while allowing you to explore Japanese culture and to enjoy campus life.
1. International Seminar
We invite well-known researchers from all over the world. This is a great opportunity to hear about their research, and also a good chance to discuss it with them personally. Recent seminar titles are, “New Challenges of ODS for Agricultural Development Schemes in Recipient Countries” in 2012, and “Contemporary Issues in East Asian Agriculture, its Market, Environment, and GIAHS” in 2013. This will be one of the most exciting experiences you will have in your academic career.
2. Research skills seminar
Many of the new JDS fellows are just starting their research. We will help you get started on your research as smoothly as possible. We have several research seminars such as survey methodology, writing skills, and presentation practice.
3. Research trip
Based on the student requests, we organize research trips and visit research centers or farmers such as the marine product and research center, a strawberry farm, rice farmers and an agricultural engineering site. This is an exciting opportunity to get to know and see the leading technology in agriculture or marine production as a future technological leader in your home countries.
In 2019, we exercised the training at irrigation facilities that are adaptable to developing countries as well as “Simultaneous production of rice and ducks” training course given by a world-renowned farmer, Dr. Takao Furuno to develop organic agriculture with high added-value. Further, practical training of rice planting and harvesting in terraced rice fields to study regional development in mountainous regions. Students also visit Japan Agricultural Cooperatives (JA) and a roadside station to conduct training on ecotourism and direct sales of agricultural products.
4. Practical English proficiency program
Because English skill is one of major obstacles for JDS students, our JDS special program give students an opportunity to learn English presentation skills from a professional instructor. In addition, students will take remote lectures from a US university to learn thesis writing exercises in English.
5. Collaboration project with JDS program at Hiroshima University.
In order to learn a wide range of international development matters, in collaboration with Hiroshima University, we have set up an annual scientific meeting ‘the International Development Society West Japan Area Research Presentation’ and give all JDS students an opportunity to present their research and stimulate interactions among other JDS students.
6. Follow-up seminar
After two years of hard work, your supervisors will be your important research co-workers. We organize follow-up seminars in your home countries, where you can have another opportunity to discuss and inspire your further research. Follow up seminars were held in Laos in 2011, Vietnam in 2012, Myammer in 2014.
7. Life in Kyushu University
Academic life at Kyushu University is intense as well as warm and welcoming. One of the best experiences of your two-year academic life will be the farewell party held by the Agricultural Faculty, including your supervisors, at the end of your two year program. JDS fellows celebrate their hard work, and enjoy the last BBQ at Kyushu University.
