Theme: Global Human Resources Development through the History of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Advanced Drug Discovery Research Originating in Nagasaki

From December 7 (Sun) to December 13 (Sat), 2025, Nagasaki University hosted eight participants from Taipei Medical University’s School of Pharmacy—seven graduate and undergraduate students and one accompanying faculty member—as part of the Sakura Science Program. Taipei Medical University and Nagasaki University have signed memorandum of understandings and have a long-standing academic exchange, including short-term training programs for students.

This year’s program featured a variety of activities, including tours of the facilities at the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, lectures on advanced drug discovery, hands-on laboratory experiences, student exchanges, visits to pharmaceutical companies, and a final presentation and discussion meeting.

Program Highlights

• Day 2: After orientation, participants toured the facilities at the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences. At the Dr. Osamu Shimomura Memorial Honoring Museum, they showed great interest in exhibits related to the Nobel Prize-winning research. Visits to the Museum of Pharmaceutical History and the Medicinal Botanical Garden sparked lively discussions about traditional dispensing tools and medicinal plants.

• Day 3: Lectures on advanced drug discovery were held, covering topics such as drug delivery systems, diagnostic drug development, and functional nucleic acids. Afterward, participants visited related laboratories for research introductions, experimental experiences, and student interaction. In the evening, a networking session with faculty and volunteer students provided an opportunity to experience Japanese food culture.

• Day 4: Participants visited the Nakatomi Memorial Museum of Pharmaceuticals in Tosu City to learn about herbal medicine and pharmaceutical culture. They also toured the Sawai Pharmaceutical Kyushu Factory in Iizuka City, observing the manufacturing process of generic drugs in Japan.

• Day 5: Lectures on biological and organic chemistry topics were conducted, followed by additional laboratory experiences. Participants also visited historical sites such as the Koshima Yojosho (the first modern Western-style hospital in Japan) and the remains of Bunseki Kyurisho, learning about the origins of modern Western medicine in Japan and the contributions of Dr. Pompe.

• Day 6 (Final Day): A final presentation session was held, where invited students shared their impressions of lectures and experiments, program feedback, and future aspirations, including study abroad plans. Active discussions with Nagasaki University students followed. The program concluded with the presentation of certificates by Professor Koyo Nishida, the Dean of the School of Pharmaceutical Sciences.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Sakura Science Program for its support and to all faculty members and students of Nagasaki University who contributed to the success of this program.

Day 2 – Dr. Osamu Shimomura Memorial Honoring Museum

Day 3 – Experimental experience 1

Day 3 – Networking Session

Day 4 – Sawai Pharmaceutical Factory Visit

Day 5 – Experimental experience 2

Day 5 – Experimental experience 3

Day 6 – Final Presentation

Day 6 – Certificate Award Ceremony