Professor Satoshi Kubota of the Kochi University in Japan came to Benguet State University on March 1, 2024, to introduce scholarship programs and research initiatives.

During his visit, the Japanese professor held a lecture at the College of Teacher Education Dominador S. Garin Hall, attended by BSU students, faculty members, staff, and University researchers.

Prof. Kubota introduced scholarship programs at Kochi University for interested participants. First is the Kuroshio Science Program, a Ph.D. course for interdisciplinary education and research offered at Kochi University. It integrates various specialized fields, including resources, environment, society, health medical science, food, and nursing.

Second is the scholarships for agriculture and marine science program. This program is a master’s course that aims to address issues on food security, effective utilization of biological resources, and preservation and recovery of environments.

The professor next presented the Internet of Plants (IoP) project, a research initiative in agriculture. The IoP facilitates real-time monitoring of plant growth and environmental conditions. He also shared his experiences in research and expressed enthusiasm to collaborate with BSU.

Deputy Director of the International Relations Office, Doreen I. Allasiw, highlighted the importance of flexibility and adaptability in the realm of research in her closing remarks. She also advised the participants to seize the opportunity, particularly the scholarship programs of Kochi University, and hoped Prof. Kubota’s lecture would provide them with an idea of research topics.//EBawayan