The KIZUNA India Japan Study Forum and CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research (CSIR-NIScPR), New Delhi, jointly organised a lecture on the topic “The Culture of Science & Higher Education in India and Japan: Historical Perspectives, Current Issues and Tips for Exchanges”, on 26 March 2025. Renowned scholar Prof. Yoshiro Azuma delivered this lecture.

The event aimed to facilitate a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural contexts of science and higher education in India and Japan. Prof. Azuma’s lecture provided valuable insights into the similarities and differences between the two countries’ approaches to science and education. According to his understanding, the Western education system inculcates inquiry and questioning, whereas the Japanese education system was developed upon the idea of assimilation and India’s education system which went through a devastating colonial experience (that Japan did not suffer) inculcates a strong mathematical dexterity, multi-tasking ability, good English, and their dynamic jugaad like approach to things. He emphasised that Japanese students succumb to negative peer pressure, whereas Indian students are tougher. Indians are much more accommodating to diversity than Japanese.

The programme commenced with introductory remarks by Prof. Sushila Narsimhan, followed by opening remarks by Prof. Deepak Kumar. Prof. Azuma’s lecture was then followed by observations from the discussant, Dr Ashok Jain. The event concluded with closing remarks by Prof. Sushila Narsimhan.

The programme was coordinated by Dr Vipan Kumar and Dr Naresh Kumar (Chief Scientists, CSIR-NIScPR).
This lecture was part of a series of initiatives aimed at promoting India-Japan collaboration in science, technology, and education. The KIZUNA India Japan Study Forum and CSIR-NIScPR will continue to work together to facilitate dialogue and cooperation between Indian and Japanese scholars and institutions.