Seven students from Saskatchewan Polytechnic recently embarked on an immersive two-week study trip to Japan, marking the beginning of a promising partnership with Nagano College. This initiative connects students from Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Electronic Systems Engineering Technology program with their Japanese peers, fostering hands-on learning in a culturally rich environment. A reciprocal program is planned for the fall at Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Saskatoon campus.
The journey began in Tokyo, where representatives from both institutions formalized their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding at the Canadian Embassy. Kira Cordero-Ruiz, the International Cooperation and Study Abroad Coordinator at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. “We are thrilled that this will be an ongoing, mutually beneficial program promoting cross-cultural learning and exchange,” she said.
Following the formalities, the delegation traveled to Nagano College. There, students lived in dormitories and fully engaged in Japanese campus life. “University life in Japan differs significantly from what our students experience in Canada, both culturally and structurally,” explained program leader Christopher Roslinsky. “This experience highlighted both similarities and differences between our students’ educational journeys.”
One of the first-year students, Travis Kinsella, noted the intensity of Japanese coursework balanced with ample opportunities for extracurricular engagement. “Japanese courses are demanding, but students can explore their interests through clubs. For example, engineering clubs help students reinforce classroom learning and discover their passions,” he said.
Teegahn McFadden, set to graduate this spring, enjoyed connecting with Japanese students. “It was fantastic to be part of their community and learn more about them. We explored their robotics and automotive projects and even played dodgeball together. Learning their version of the game was really fun,” he remarked.
Nagano College’s unique six-year program includes two years of high school, two years of technical training, and an option for two years of university coursework. This broad age range from teens to adults means the school maintains strict rules and curfews.
Project instructor Anthony Voykin highlighted insights into Japanese discipline and corporate culture gained during the visit. “Japanese workers, like students, are diligent. At one company, employees dedicate 10 to 20 percent of flexible time to learning from colleagues in different fields. Their working hours are notably long,” he said.
“To compensate, companies provide high-quality meals at top restaurants. The corporate culture encourages meetings during lunch, so dining spaces are bright and inviting,” Voykin added.
The group toured several engineering sites, including a civil engineering firm, an engineering test facility, and a train station maintenance workshop specializing in electronic repairs.
A standout visit was to a local miso factory renowned for its automation. “We observed every production step—from measuring and distributing ingredients to conveyor belts, sensors, and timing. Seeing the components operate as a system was fascinating,” Kinsella said.
McFadden praised the factory’s cleanliness and organization. The delegation even brought home miso samples, a staple ingredient in traditional Japanese soups.
Cultural experiences enriched the trip. Students savored authentic Japanese dishes, tried making “mochi,” a traditional sweet, and participated in a tea ceremony.
“Visiting temples and shrines brought a peaceful contrast to the bustling city. It taught me to be mindful of my actions, not to act on autopilot but to think consciously,” Kinsella reflected.
He also noticed how Japanese culture minimizes waste and values efficient use of time, especially evident during the tea ceremony. “This trip taught me so much.”
Voykin emphasized the program’s impact. “Some students had never traveled outside Saskatchewan. They gained confidence to make independent decisions, navigate local transport, and creatively overcome language barriers.”
“I’ve already seen these lessons reflected in the classroom. The experiences and stories they bring home will strengthen their communication skills and confidence in future careers.”
Both Kinsella and McFadden praised the program’s timing during their studies. Faculty and partners are preparing to welcome a group of Nagano College students and chaperones to Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Saskatoon campus in fall 2025 for a similar immersive exchange.
Dr. Larry Rosia, President and CEO of Saskatchewan Polytechnic, thanked Nagano College’s National Institute of Technology (KOSEN) for initiating this collaboration. “Our students gained immensely from this visit. We look forward to hosting your students this fall in Saskatoon,” he said.
This program exemplifies how international partnerships can foster meaningful cross-cultural learning, enrich student experiences, and prepare young professionals for a globalized world.
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