To broaden intellectual horizons and foster scientific exploration among young learners, the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) has been implementing the ‘Japan Asia Youth Exchange Program in Science’, also known as the ‘Sakura Science Programme’, since 2014. India has been participating in the programme since April 2016. Purposes of Sakura Science Exchange Program The Sakura Science Program's objectives include: To support the development of talented human resources from overseas who have the potential to contribute to innovation in science and technology. To accelerate international talent circulation. To promote continuous collaboration, cooperation and interaction between Japanese and overseas educational and research institutes. To strengthen good relationships between Japan and other countries and regions that can encourage diplomacy in science and technology. Eligible persons Students, researchers and others engaged in science and technology who are 40 years old and under. Eligible fields: Exchanges in the fields of science and technology, including the humanities and social sciences Types of programmes Open Application Program Course D: Annual Mutual Exchange Course Target: India and African countries This course is to deepen exchanges of Japanese and foreign youth by inviting, dispatching, and conducting year-round online exchanges. The exchange period will be within one year. The dispatch and invitation with a maximum of 90 days/person are assumed to be a hybrid exchange combined with online exchanges. JST supports the necessary expenses for the programs selected as Open Application Program. Number of participants selected per year: 10 JST Direct Invitation Program There are two kinds of programs which JST plans and implements as a host organization. SAKURA SCIENCE High School Program - Excellent high school students from overseas countries and regions are invited to experience science and technology in Japan SAKURA SCIENCE Supporters Program - Foreign experts in the field of science and technology or education, who are engaged in implementation of Sakura Science Exchange Program are invited to Japan to experience Japanese cutting-edge science and technology, as well as science and technology administration. How to apply Applications for Open Application programmes can be made at https://ssp.jst.go.jp/en/program/ Acceptance start : February 16 Deadline : April 2 Result notification : Late May Exchange period : Early July ~ March 12, 2027 Source : Sakura Science Exchange Program portal