BREAKING NEWS
TWO Solomon Islands University of the South Pacific (USP) Laucala Campus third year Environmental (Earth) Science students Michelle Fifiri and Glenford Iamaea participated in the JENESY Program 2024 spoke highly about it as an ‘eye-opening.’
JENESY stands for Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange of Students and Youths. It is a program fully funded by the Government of Japan.
The USP Pacific international Office coordinates this program for Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.
The theme of the JENESY Program for 2024 was ‘Disaster Prevention and Environment.’
Ms Fifiri hails from North Malaita, whilst Mr Iamaea is from Arosi II in Makira-Ulawa Province.
As environmental science students with a focus on Earth science, the duo said they have always been deeply passionate about understanding the planet’s processes and the challenges it faces.
They said their recent journey to Japan through the JENESY programme opened their eyes to a new level of insight, experiences and cultural appreciation that will shape both the academic and professional path.
“This trip wasn’t just about visiting sites; it was a profound immersion into disaster prevention efforts, cultural exchanges, and practical environmental lessons that will stay with us for years to come.
“One of the highlights of our trip was visiting disaster prevention sites, which directly aligned with our course and academic interests. Japan, a country known for its susceptibility to natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis and typhoons, has become a global leader in disaster-preparedness and resilience.”
The program included visits to innovative infrastructure and technologies designed to protect communities from these risks, offering invaluable lessons on how to tackle environmental challenges.
Some of the remarkable sites visited were the Rinkai Tokyo Disaster prevention center, where the program participants were given insights into disaster response and mitigation and the General incorporated Association Chichibu Yui Machi, which focuses on the use of drones for disaster prevention.
The program participants were amazed to see and learn how to use a drone to combat disaster Situations at the The Metropolitan Outer Area Underground Discharge Channel- One of the world’s largest underground flood- diversion systems.
At the Nagareyama Clean center, which was built to mitigate flooding damage, the program participants learnt about inspiring innovative waste management and recycling strategies using eco-friendly practices and safe tools to protect the environment.
Mr Iamaea and Ms Fifiri said, “The ingenuity behind Japan’s disaster prevention systems has given us a deep understanding of how such efforts can be scaled and adapted to the Pacific islands, where climate change poses an increasing threat.
“The lessons learned will empower us and other passionate participants to advocate for sustainable practices and environmental policies that address our vulnerabilities, particularly in the face of rising sea levels and extreme weather events.”
In addition to the environmental knowledge gained, Mr Iamaea said the cultural exchange with host families was an unforgettable experience.
“Immersing myself in the Japanese way of life allowed me to understand the deep cultural values that have helped shape their society. I was particularly moved by the importance of respect, a value that permeates every aspect of life in Japan, from their manners to their approach to work and relationships. This sense of respect, combined with a blend of cultural practices, is something I believe can offer valuable lessons for any society, especially in the context of creating sustainable solutions for our environmental future.”
Ms Fifiri added that, “Japan’s culture of respect extends beyond just people; it also reflects a respect for the environment and natural resources. This approach aligns with our goals as aspiring environmentalists, where both knowledge and respect for nature are key in crafting effective solutions to global challenges. The sense of responsibility that observed during our time in Japan has motivated me to return to our studies with a renewed passion and determination to contribute meaningfully to the environmental field.”
The duo said they also had the privilege of hearing inspiring words from the ambassadors of Samoa and Tonga and that they would like to share them with Solomon Islands youth.
They said youth ambassadors of Samoa and Tonga have shared messages reminding the youth that they are the driving force behind change.
“We are the power for the country today, let’s work with passion and knowledge, and we can move a country, countries, and the world.” These powerful words resonated with us deeply, fueling our belief that we as young people have the potential to make a real difference in the fight against climate change and environmental degradation.”
Mr Iamaea and Ms Fifiri said the innovative spirit and dedication they witnessed in Japan inspired them to not only deepen their understanding of environmental issues, but also to advocate for sustainable solutions that are grounded in respect for both people and the planet.
They said the JENESY program has been a life-changing experience and they were grateful for the opportunity to be part of it.
The duo thanked the USP International office and JTB Corp of the Government of Japan and all who have worked together behind the scene to make the necessary arrangements for the “successful Inspirational and Educational JENESY tour.”
They said they left Japan with a heart full of gratitude and a mind brimming with ideas as the lessons they learnt about disaster preparedness, cultural respect and environmental innovation will be a guide as they continue their studies and work toward a future where they help protect the planet and its communities.
“We are excited to bring these lessons home and share them with our peers and communities in the Pacific Islands. Together, with passion and knowledge, we can create a better, more resilient world.”
The program provides fully funded 7 to 9 days study tours to Japan for university students between the ages of 18 and 34 who are enrolled in a degree or higher-level program.
Each tour has a theme and a prefecture in Japan is assigned to the specific theme.
The themes include: Peace building, history and culture, Sports, Disaster and reconstruction, Marine resources, Japanese culture and language, trade, tourism and investment, Environment and energy, ocean resources and conservation.