KGS’s Nicole Tanchu TransformativeJourney to Japan.

Nicole Tanchu, a second-year MSc. Molecular Medicine student at KEMRI Graduate School (KGS), is thrilled to have been announced as recipient of the popular KGS Nagasaki University Planetary Health Africa-Japan Strategic and Collaborative Education (PHASE) ShortTerm Exchange Travel Programme.

For Nicole, this seven-day excursion to Japan is more than just a trip; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to advance her academic and professional journey.

Despite the brief duration of the programme, Nicole’s excitement is palpable. “This means the world to me,” she says, her voice brimming with enthusiasm. “I am super excited to have landed this opportunity and look forward to a lot of learning in Japan.”

In addition to her studies, Nicole is also a molecular biology and bioinformatics research intern at KEMRI’s Centre for Virus Research (CVR), making this exchange a perfect complement to her current work.

The PHASE Short-Term Exchange Programme is an extension of the PHASE Online Exchange Programme, which was held in February 2024. Designed to develop participants into inter-cultural ambassadors, the online component culminated in the selection of one participant for a seven-day visit to Japan. Nicole is that fortunate nominee, chosen from a pool of talented students, to represent KSG in Japan.

During her stay, Nicole will visit various industries, including those focused on telemedicine and next-generation technologies. The primary goal of the programme is to promote research and education while fostering an intercultural human resource capable of addressing global challenges, particularly those related to planetary health.

The path to Nicole’s selection began with an email from KGS announcing the PHASE Short-Term Exchange Programme. Applicants were evaluated based on their academic achievements and alignment with the programme’s objectives. After completing the online training, one participant was nominated for the exchange, and their details were sent to Nagasaki University for final approval.

Nicole’s selection by Nagasaki University was a testament to her academic excellence and potential as a future leader in global health.

Nicole sees this programme as a crucial steppingstone in her career. “I look forward to learning more about Japan and experiencing a bit of Japanese culture. I also aim to identify potential technological applications and advancements through the industrial visits, which could be adapted to our local context. Finally, I hope to build international collaborations with fellow participants, professionals, and professors at the university,” she shares passionately.

For Nicole, academic success is just one part of her career journey; developing transferable skills like problem-solving and adaptability is equally important. “This programme provides an invaluable opportunity to enhance these skills, making me more competitive in the job market,” she adds. She is also hopeful that the collaborations forged during this exchange will lead to significant academic an research advancements.

Nicole believes that exchange programmes are essential for KSG, as they foster international collaboration, expose students to diverse cultures, and introduce them to cuttingedge research technologies. She also acknowledges that these programmes enhance the reputation of KGS as a hub of research and academic excellence.

Nicole has some practical advice for students aspiring to participate in future programmes. “Stay vigilant for any announcements from KGS regarding such opportunities, and start your application process as early as possible,” she advises.

This, she notes, ensures that students have ample time to gather all necessary documents before the deadline. She also emphasizes the importance of tailoring one’s application to align with the PHASE Programme’s objectives, making it stand out. Lastly, she encourages students to reach out to KGS for assistance if they encounter any difficulties during the application process.

As Nicole Tanchu prepares to embark on this exciting journey to Japan, she carries with her not only the hopes of her own future but also the pride and aspirations of KEMRI Graduate School. This exchange is just the beginning of what promises to be a bright and impactful career in global health and molecular medicine.