Sakura Science Project – A Field Trip to Japan

Article written by Esther Chan, Dilton Yong, Megan Quek, Kuan Chung Kai, Yang Hao Yuan

10 NUS students from College of Alice & Peter Tan (CAPT) and the Social Work Department collaborated with Juntendo University in Tokyo, Japan, to embark on a 7-day learning visit to Tokyo to further explore the geriatric care systems present in Japan. The trip introduced students to the technology which has been integrated into their elder care systems, as well as how Japan continues to evolve its care systems to address issues of its aging population. The trip was held from 16 to 23 December, and was led by CAPT Fellow, Assoc Prof Thang Leng Leng, and Asst Prof Lee Geok Ling from Social Work Department.

“This programme broadens our perspectives by demonstrating to us how research and technology can be complemented with social approaches to tackle the challenge of the aging population. This is exemplified by the hospitals’ recognition that medical intervention alone is insufficient, and a transition from a medical model to a more holistic social model is necessary – a mentality which deserves to be emulated. Visits to nursing homes and elderly housing also illustrated the ingenuity and attention to details that went into designing such spaces to enable accessibility.” – Yang Hao Yuan

“This exchange programme opened up my vision of the future world. I am really impressed by the speed Japan is heading towards in advancing their technology to the next level. I am also very heartened to know that while Japan is advancing, they are not leaving the disadvantaged behind. I am very blessed to have been given this opportunity, and I will utilise all that I have gained through this exchange programme well.” – Chan Jie Yi, Esther