This summer, Mr. Taiki Ishibashi of year 11 attended Asian Science Camp 2025 in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand (Suranaree University of Technology (SUT)).

This program, targeted towards high school and university students throughout Asia, with all programs handled in English, and lectures and discussions held by Nobel laureates and top level researchers, participants are able to directly experience the interesting aspects of science and make connections with others.

(the 2025 camp was held by Thailand's POSN (Promotion of Academic Olympiad and Development of Science Education Foundation) and SUT, with the Japan Science and Technology agent handling selection and dispatch for the Japanese dispatch group)


Below, we present the report from Mr. Taiki.

－Please explain the reason you decided to participate in this event.

I felt a lot of appeal in being able to learn, not just from those within Japan, but striving together with those of the same generation across borders, learning directly from researchers on the front lines. In order to expand my view internationally and to further my sense of exploration, I decided to volunteer to attend the camp as a representative for Japan.

－What do you think was the biggest point of study in the camp?

The lectures by Professor Takaaki Kajita (Nobel Prize in Physics, 2015／Neutrino Oscillation) and Professor Drew Weissmann (Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, 2023／mRNA Vaccine) were high level, but it's precisely because there were parts that were difficult to understand that I could consider it as proof that there is something worth studying. The words of chemistry Professor Jay S. Siegel that 'Availability Stimulates Creativity' has become an approach to support my learning.
In addition, in the poster session, I experienced international teams of five people debated the theme of sustainability, using their various backgrounds and points of view to work towards one goal. I felt how science is at once the collection of knowledge, yet also the process of advancing through cooperative and continuous questioning.

－What kind of an influence has this experience had on you?

In the practice expressing my ideas through the shared language of English, and debating ideas with people from around the world, I've felt a solid reaction. Moving forward, alongside increasing my understanding of maths, science, and experiment theory, I would also like to improve my ability to transmit my ideas in an international setting.
My ambition is to make a better world through science and technology. In the future, I'd like to be a researcher who can contribute to society and environmental problems through science and technology.

I'd would like to extend our thanks to the Thai hosts, the JST, the various lecturers, and the other Japanese representatives who helped support one another. With the energy gained through studying at ASC, I hope to keep moving straight forward and become a member of the world's scientific community.

Mr Ishibashi has learned much from his cooperation with international friends.
We hear from him the voice of a young researcher of the next generation taking a solid step forward.
We look forward to his further development and efforts from here on out.

This year's camp can be viewed from the link below.
Asian Science Camp 2025