Experience in Japan

It was my first flight experience and first foreign trip, which made the experience much more exciting. The japan visit was a great learning experience. There is lot to learn from Japanese people. They stood against all the earthquakes, atom bomb attacks, Tsunami very firmly and they are still among the most advanced countries. Crime rates in Japan are negligible, hence it is a very safe country to live in there. They are very helpful, respectful, hardworking people. Huge metro network, bullet trains, a very good waste management were the other interesting things for me. University campus is beautiful. University of Tokyo offers a very good support for international students in many ways. I used to have international gatherings every Tuesday. They offer free Japanese language courses. There are quite a lot of scholarships available for both masters and Phd students, which can help one in managing expenses during stay in japan. The IJEP participants also got opportunity to visit DMG Mori industry in Iga, Mie Prefecture. We travelled by Shinkansen (Bullet Train) and it was completely sponsored by IJEP. There was tea ceremony for us which was my first exposure to Japanese culture. Open campus at IIS Todai gave me opportunity to visit and explore several research labs at the research centre. May festival in hongo camus of University of Tokyo gave further exposures to Japanese cultures.

My Research Project

The research project which was given to me, was a part of an ongoing research on development of Micro Mixer. A pumpless micro mixer was proposed in the work done by Kaneko et.al. in Hasegawa Lab, University of Tokyo. The device consisted pillars on PDMS substrate surface. A vibration induced flow around the pillars was observed in his experiment. But the simulation results showed some deviations from the experimental observations. These anomalous observations motivated me to study flow field inside a droplet on an oscillating wall. I found some interesting results which explained the deviations. I also suggested optimum frequency for operating the mixing device. Other than my own research lab I also got an opportunity to visit Suzuki lab in Chuo University, where the mixing device was fabricated. Both the research labs were very rich in research facilities. Professors were very approachable and helpful. I used to have meetings with my professor almost every week, which was a great help in my research progress. I enjoyed lab parties and lab trips a lot.

Food

Just like me you might also not like Japanese cafeteria food. I used to cook my breakfasts and dinners. My cooking adventures started in Japan itself and cooking was an absolute fun. There is Shin-Okubo station near Shinjuku where several Indian Shops are available to buy Indian rice, freezed chapati and spices. To buy others items, stores available inside university campus, My Basket and Lawson’s 100 Yen store would be better choices.

However I had also tried Japanese traditional food like Takoyaki (octopus) and Okunomiyaki (beef), and these were very delicious. It was fun having beers, wines, several seafoods (Shrimp, Tuna, Salmon etc.) with my lab members and professor. I also tasted Japanese rice wine Sake.

Accomodation

There are a few good options like:

Fujimi House (http://fujimihouse.jp/?lang=en), DK House (http://www.e-guesthouse.com/eng/), Sakura House (http://www.sakura-house.com/en/), Tokyo Rent (http://www.tokyorent.com/top/index.html), UTokyo Housing Office (http://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/administration/housing-office/housing/minkan/index.html)

I stayed in fujimi house and perhaps it is the best choice. Fujimi houses are fully furnished with several facilities including like bed, AC, TV, Refrigerator, Gas stove, Oven, Utensils etc.

 

Weekend Trips

I would suggest the future participants to work hard during weekdays and go around places in Japan during weekends and explore japan and its culture. I visited quite a lot of places like Tokyo Tower, Skytree, Nikko, Yoyogi Park, Nezu Park, Ueno Zoo, Onsens (Okutama, toshimaen niwa-no-yu), Kamakura, Enoshima, Shrines, Temples etc. I also had trekking to quite a few mountains (Mount Odake, Mount Mitake, Mount Nokkogiri). These were worth exploring.

 

Application for the Internship

The application for the internship was started in November 2016. I came to know about the IJEP Internship program through an email from the Office of International Relations, IIT Kanpur.  We had to select a lab from a given list of host labs. One could submit up to two recommendations from professors of the home institute. There were no interviews or any need to contact host professors. Selection of candidates was made purely by academic records, statement of purpose and recommendations from professors. If you already have an excellent academic record and good experience in the field you are applying for, I would recommend preparing a good statement of purpose. Be sure that your statement of purpose is original and reflects your interests and research goals. Results were declared by the end of February, and I was notified of it through an email from the IJEP secretariat.

Before arrival in Japan

All of us were recommended different accommodation places in Japan by the IJEP Secretariat. I selected Fujimi House Evergreen Yoyogi as it was close to my lab in IIS Komaba. The flight tickets (round trip) were provided by the IJEP Secretariat. The return date was flexible, and so I extended it to one more week than the minimum required days. All the necessary documents for the visa were provided ahead of time, and IJEP people helped a lot in case of any doubt.

After Arrival in Japan

I stayed at Fujimi House along with another IJEP intern from IIT Kharagpur. The facilities provided at the Fujimi House were excellent. It was entirely furnished, and we also had unlimited internet access (Both wireless and LAN). I was anxious about the internet connection before coming to Japan, but Fujimi House had a very good internet connection. My lab was 30 minutes walking distance from my house, but I used to take the metro for daily commuting. The nearest station was only 3 minutes walking distance from my house. If you get into such a situation, I would recommend getting a bicycle. It’ll save you a lot of money.

We had an orientation session where we had a heartwarming welcome by the IJEP coordinators, and we were taken to Hongo campus tour of the University of Tokyo. We were astonished by the beauty of the campus and splendid architecture of buildings. On the 2nd day itself, we had Japanese language class from Furuichi san where she taught us day to day Japanese words/language which proved to be very useful during our entire stay, and it was fun too. We also had a Traditional Chado Tea Ceremony.

I had a welcome party by my lab members, and since I was vegetarian, they had specially ordered vegetarian items for me.

1. Food

When I came here, I was a vegetarian. I had brought ingredients from India for cooking. I didn’t know cooking before and learned everything in Japan. It was an awesome experience to learn cooking. I can assure vegetarian people with all sincerity that you are not going to face any problem at all if you bring ingredients from India. Also, there are very good Indian Supermarket so even if you run out of the ingredient, you can always buy them here. I would recommend having dry fruits like Cashew, Almond, etc. It’ll help you a lot. There are so many good Indian restaurants in Tokyo. So, if you don’t want to cook, you can always go to a restaurant in Tokyo.

2. Lab and Research Work

For my internship work, I was assigned a mentor who was a 2nd year Masters Student at The University of Tokyo. My task was to work on long term GPS raw probe data of Indian vehicles with her. Despite being research mentor, she helped me throughout my stay. She helped me in buying SIM cards, Train Pass, Food, etc. during my initial days. She was always the first person from whom I used to seek help. Despite her busy schedule, she was always ready to help.

Every Wednesday, we used to have Bootcamp (Lab-meetings) where all lab members had to show their research progress. We used to have good and healthy discussions.  We also used to have joint lab seminar of two labs every other Saturday. It was really great to know about other people’s research work.

All lab members were amiable and helpful. I could talk about anything with them. Also, there was no problem of resources in the lab. Whenever I required anything for my research, I got them immediately.

I finished my internship work very early and then I was assigned another task which I also completed ten days before leaving Japan. For my main work, I submitted my work for international conferences. My skills and experiences improved significantly because of this internship. Before coming here, I was not sure about my career, but now I am determined. I am very much inclined toward research now.

3. Major Events and Trips

There were regular events during the stay. The most important of them was May Festival and IIS Open House. May Festival is like IIT’s Cultural and Tech Festival combined. It is held for two days. It was a great opportunity to learn Japanese culture. I got so many Indian seniors in May Festival through UTISA. Some of them also went on a trip with us and helped a lot through our stay. In the end, they also gave us a big treat.

IIS Open House is also a two-day event where every lab of IIS Todai presents their work. It made us familiar with the level of research that goes here. I felt mesmerized by some of the presentations like ‘Treasure Hunting’.

We also had a trip by IJEP coordinators. We visited DMG Mori Plant, Nara, and Kyoto. We took Shinkansen (Bullet Train). The entire cost of the trip was taken care by IJEP coordinators. Traveling in Shinkansen was a lifetime experience.

There were regular events during the stay. The most important of them was May Festival and IIS Open House. May Festival is like IIT’s Cultural and Tech Festival combined. It is held for two days. It was a great opportunity to learn Japanese culture. I got so many Indian seniors in May Festival through UTISA. Some of them also went on a trip with us and helped a lot through our stay. In the end, they also gave us a big treat.

IIS Open House is also a two-day event where every lab of IIS Todai presents their work. It made us familiar with the level of research that goes here. I felt mesmerized by some of the presentations like ‘Treasure Hunting’.

We also had a trip by IJEP coordinators. We visited DMG Mori Plant, Nara, and Kyoto. We took Shinkansen (Bullet Train). The entire cost of the trip was taken care by IJEP coordinators. Traveling in Shinkansen was a lifetime experience.

 

4. City Life

You are never going to be bored in Tokyo. My house was very close to Shibuya and Shinjuku. They are the most happening place in Tokyo. Even roaming around these locations is so exciting. You can watch Shibuya Crossing all day sitting at Starbucks.

There are so many places to visit in Tokyo. Some of them such as Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, Shinjuku Observatory is must for everyone. For anime lovers, Akihabara will be like heaven. You also have Tokyo Disney Resort nearby. There are so many hills you can trek. We trekked Mt. Mitake, Odake, Nokogiri. The list of places goes on and on. It is left up to you to explore them.

People of Japan are awesome. Japanese people are very polite, disciplined, helpful and hard-working.  There are so many things to learn from Japanese people. Tokyo itself is a very safe place to live. I would recommend you all to apply for IJEP internship and experience Japan once. You will never regret your decision.

If you have any doubt, feel free to message me here: http://facebook.com/ashutkg

 

2017 was the first time when IIT Bombay was included in the IJEP Program and hence me being the first one from my institute selected for this internship program, didn’t have any seniors to talk to about their experience and it was these Student’s Voice accounts that helped me get some idea about the internship affairs, and so I’ll try to keep this sufficiently detailed.

I did my IJEP internship at the Information Science and Technology at Suda Lab. The internship process in India was simple. After completing the application and receiving the confirmation and acceptance one had to discuss and finalise the internship dates and durations with one’s professor and it is usually flexible. The necessary documents were provided and were sufficient for obtaining the VISA. (Note: It may require few documents from your side as well like your fathers pay-slip etc. and hence it is advisable to get the process started as soon as you receive all the documents from the university; The documents are usually addressed to the Consulate in Delhi but works everywhere)

Accomodation

Accommodation is something that might be of some concern as it is not provided by the program but the recommended lodgings are trustworthy and live up to the images on their websites. Some of the most common ones are Fujimi House and Sakura House, the former being costlier. Housing is expensive in Tokyo and hence sharing a room is advisable to save money. I stayed in Fujimi House – Princess Court Tabata Station and the stay was quite comfortable and all the necessary goods required are easily available in the neighbourhood.

Upon Arrival

After coming to Japan, one will quickly realise that it is nothing like India. The ubiquitous cleanliness, traffic rules (being followed), and the security is outstanding. And one cannot forget the convenience of the public transport; the trains, subway and the buses (Note: Look for IC Cards – Pasmo or Suica; They are really helpful). The IJEP staff from the University provide all the necessary orientation to kickstart your stay in Japan and along with the JLCSE department of UTokyo they also introduce you to the culture and some basic Japanese Language phrases! Though, your meeting with your professor and rest of the activities are totally based on the mutual consent between you and your professor and the IJEP staff and nothing to do with it. They will occasionally send emails regarding the JASSO Scholarship collection and other events going on in the university! (Note: No money was provided when we arrived in Japan and we had to fend for ourselves in the first month till the first instalment was provided)

Japan

Japan is a very beautiful country while being modern as well. There are loads of places to visit and thing to do. One must use this opportunity to not only explore the research possibilities in the university but also explore the city of Tokyo and the country of Japan. You may find these links useful in planning your trips around Tokyo and Japan. https://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/model-route/kanto/index.html https://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/ http://www.japan-guide.com/. Here are a few pictures of amazing places I visited in Japan

 

Japan, like India, has loads of Shrine and Temples some of which are amazing and breath-taking and visiting at least a few of them is a must.

Some issues one could face in Japan are

• Food for the vegetarians: Though the raw material is readily available, cooked vegetarian meal is a rarity. Learning to cook is the best option to survive without having to eat salads and breads! Indian restaurants (run mostly by the Nepalese) are not hard to find though, with three of them being just outside the Hongo Campus grounds. Overall, I would say it is not-impossible and manageable.
• Language: Believe it or not, hardly anyone speaks English in Japan and hence it becomes essential to learn basic survival Japanese to communicate well with the local people. The JLCSE department runs an introductory course during the latter part of the stay which is pretty helpful and you can even obtain a completion certificate!

Events – JLCSE

There are numerous event which happen periodically in the University which give a great experience of the Japanese culture right from within the institute. A couple of them which I was a part of include the Yukata wearing Workshop and the session with the Sumo Wrestlers.

Final Presentation and Party!

In the last week, we had a final presentation where we presented our work during the internship period and we were awarded our completion certificated. Later that day we had a part for the International Students of UTokyo with food, drinks and great events like the Watermelon breaking contest and Japanese Musical Chairs!

It was very saddening to leave such a beautiful country and the invaluable experience. Overall the experience was amazing and I would recommend everyone to give Japan a try!

Internships are very important as they enhance your experiences and help you set your future goals. IJEP program allows you to be an important part of your lab. You will feel no less important than any other doctoral student in the lab. If you are considering going for higher studies, you don’t want to miss this program. I will broadly classify my report into three parts:

1)Application

2)Experience

3)Conclusion

1)Application:

Rather than just looking at the reputation of the university, I believe that it is equally if not more important to consider the lab in which you want to work.

Although there is no (Cumulative Grade Point Average)CGPA cut-off for the application, but a good score always helps. It seems as if a substantial attention is given to your Statement of purpose(SoP) and also the recommendation letter, rather than just the CGPA. So show your genuinity in writing your SoP.

2)Experience:

• The most important part of the internship experience in the reflection. As I look back over the two months of the internship, I can see that I really grew as a professional.

I have really enjoyed my internship experience. The goals that I set for this experience, I was able to reach. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I gained personally from this experience.

2.a) Research experience:   I worked on flow boiling in an oblique wavy wall duct. I got hands on experience on Ansys Fluent software(for numerical simulation) and pointwise software(for meshing). I spent the first month in going through the literature and undertaking small assignments to get accustomed with the softwares. Professors constantly monitored my progress as I presented my research in group meetings, from time to time.

2.b)Food:

•  I usually preferred Ramen for Lunch at the Chuo refractory, located within the campus. It is difficult to find vegetarian food at the cafeteria, but there are Indian restaurants near the hongo campus.

2.c) Culture

• Got a chance to meet the sumo wrestlers.

• JLCSE classes helped me learn to speak, read and write commonly used Japanese words.
• International Cafe which provides an opportunity to meet other international students in the campus. Also a summer party is arranged towards the end of the program, where in one gets to play games and of course that comes with delicious food and drinks.
• University Festival was scheduled in the second weekend after our arrival in Japan.
• You will very well be informed about various events that are going around in the campus. So make the most of it by participating in them, they will give you an insight into the Japanese culture.

 

2.d) Tokyo experience and day trip

Japanese people were very warm and helping! I would like to share a experience regarding this. I had a problem and sought help from a Japanese person, he considered it as his responsibility to solve my problem.

Weekends were very special as I explored various places of Tokyo and surrounding areas.

Places Visited around Tokyo:

Odaiba beach:

Akihabara, Shinjuku and Shinjuku: It’s a great place in Tokyo for shopping and buying electronics tax free.

Kawagoe museum: It’s in another prefecture close to Tokyo, where you can explore the traditional Japan. I visited the art, cultural, city museums and also the castle.

Imperial Palace : The area around the Tokyo station is beautiful, with very tall skyscrapers. Imperial Palace is the home of the emperor.

Tokyo Dome City Amusement park: It roller coaster ride is amongst the top 10 rides in the world. Its an adventurous place to spend your day.

Nagoya, Nara & Kyoto (20^th June, 2017): IJEP organized a day trip to CNC machine manufacturing company, DMG Mori Iga Plant. For a Mechanical Engineering student the location of the day trip couldn’t have been better! Also got a chance to visit the magnificent Todaiji temple at Nara. Travelling in Shinkansen bullet train, at the speed at which most of the modern jet liners take off was exciting! We also visited the Todaiji temple at Nara.

2.e) Lab

•  There were many international students in my lab and apparently in UTokyo.
•  Seeing lab members spend 12-14 hrs, certainly motivated me to spend more time in the lab
•  There are state of the art facilities in the lab
•  I was assigned a mentor who helped me during my stay at UTokyo.

 

3)Conclusion:

• Learned many new things in CFD
• Time Management, Punctuality and Planning
• Certainly motivated to undertake further research in the field of CFD
• Had an amazing experience at UTokyo, one of the top ranked university in the world
• Research culture is very rich
• Made new friends from different parts of the globe
• A lot of memories to take back from  here
• Glad that I came to UTokyo

 

 

 

1. はじめに

私は今回のツアーで初めてインドに訪問した．1週間の滞在中に，IITデリー校の学生との交流，デリーメトロの視察，タージ・マハルの観光を通じて，私のインドに対する先入観は大きく裏切られた．本報告書では，私の体験したこと，感じたことを述べる．

2. ゲストハウスでの生活

私たちはデリー校内のゲストハウスに1週間宿泊した．部屋は日本のホテルと比べても遜色ないほどの部屋の広さ，家具，清潔さを兼ね備えており，おかげさまで部屋では快適に過ごすことができた．ただ，ときどき水道の水が蛇口を閉めても止まらなくなってしまったこと，シャワーのお湯が出なくなってしまったことにはほとほと困らされた．

3. インドのカレー

ゲストハウスの食事は，やはりインドといえばカレーであり，細長くてパラパラしたインド米とチャパティと一緒に出てきた．なお，こちらが食事をする手を止めなければ，無限におかわりを持ってきてくれる．インドはベジタリアンの人が多いらしく，肉は入っておらず，ヒヨコマメやインゲンマメなど豆の入ったカレーが多かった．豆はたんぱく質を多く含んでおり，高栄養価なので，十分食べごたえのあるカレーあった．一言でカレーといっても，スパイスの配合，具材の種類よって，その味は全く異なっており，滞在中に幾種類ものカレーを頂くことができた．毎食カレーの生活を通して，インドのカレー文化の素晴らしさを垣間見た．

4. IITの学生

　IITは，工学と科学技術を専門とする,インドの16の国立大学の総体であり，今回のツアーではニューデリーに位置するデリー校に訪問した．IITはインドの最高学府であり，倍率50倍以上もある最難関の入学試験をくぐりぬけたエリート学生が集まっている．卒業生には，Googleの現CEOであるサンダー・ピチャイ，孫正義ソフトバンク社長の後継候補だった元ソフトバンクグループ顧問ニケシュ・アローラなどがおり，世界トップレベルの人材を多く輩出している．

私たちは，IITの土木工学科の，構造力学や水理学，GISなどの講義を聴講した．講義の時間はそれぞれ1時間であり，全て英語で行われている．また，コンクリート研究室や地盤研究室などを訪問し，各研究室のPh.D.の学生に研究内容や実験器具の使い方の説明を受けた．IITの教育カリキュラムは，午前は講義，午後は演習やディスカッションのように分けられており，学生が自分の頭で能動的に考えることを要求する非常に実践的な学習環境が用意されている．

私はIITの訪問を通じて，学生の学習意識が非常に高いことを痛感した．この理由として，インド人はみなインド占星学で人生の節目ごとの自分の将来の目標を決める慣習があり，自分の人生のロードマップを持っているため，明確なビジョンを持って学習に当たっているということ，また，インドは貧富の差が大きい国であり，貧しい環境から抜け出すために勉強をするというモチベーションが日本よりも圧倒的に強いということを知った．

IITキャンパス風景

5. デリーメトロの視察

デリーメトロは，デリーおよびその近郊に路線網を持つ地下鉄である．路線は六本あり，総延長約193km，駅は148ある．地下鉄が建設された理由としては，経済発展による交通渋滞の緩和と大気汚染を防止する目的が大きい． 2016年度の利用客は1日当たり260万人である．初乗りは8ルピー(約15円)と，インド国民が利用しやすい運賃設定になっている．

インド政府は1995年からデリーメトロ建設プロジェクトをスタートさせ，JICAがそれを今日までずっと支援してきた．デリー中心部をカバーするフェーズ1と、デリーから周辺部への延伸路線のフェーズ2に分けて実施され、総事業費約6667億円のうち、JICAは約3748億円の円借款を供与した．JICAの協力は資金面だけでなく，安全運行や車両維持管理に関する能力を向上させるため、東京メトロを運行する東京地下鉄（株），メトロ車両（株）の協力のもと，デリー地下鉄を運行するデリー地下鉄公社への技術支援を行った．

私は，デリーメトロを視察して，駅構内が非常に清潔であり，日本の東京メトロとほぼ同じレベルのサービスが提供され，インド国民の生活に完全に根付いていることに驚いた．デリー地下鉄公社が利用者に対して地下鉄内でのゴミ廃棄禁止ルールや，駅員が乗客の整理を行うために「並ぶ」という文化を根付かせた結果であるということをJICAの職員から伺った．本プロジェクトは，日本がただ単に技術支援しただけでなく，インドに文化的革新を起こしたのである．

デリーメトロ構内

6. タージ・マハルの観光

タージ・マハルは，インド北部アーグラにある，ムガル帝国第5代皇帝シャー・ジャハーンが，1631年に死去した愛妃ムムターズ・マハルのため建設した総大理石の墓廟である．インド・イスラーム文化の代表的建築である．

インド人のガイドから，「自分は何百回もここにきているが，そのたびにタージ・マハルの墓廟を見て，感極まった思いになる．それは，晴れた時，靄がかかっているとき，朝方，夕方，いつみても美しい．」と話を伺った．

7. 終わりに

今回のツアーを通して，インドという国のポテンシャルの高さを伺い知ることができた．インドは発展の途上にあるが，都市の様相は年単位のスピードで変わってきている．土木を勉強する身として，国の発展していく姿を間近で感じることができたのは有意義なことであった．

本プログラムは、IIT-Delhiの学生との交流、日本企業への訪問の2部に分かれています。本レポートでは、時系列順にたらたらと追っていくのではなく、それぞれの部で気付いたことを箇条書きしていこうと思います。

0.出発～ゲストハウス到着まで

インディラ・ガンジー国際空港に3月12日22時ごろ到着しました。

immigrationやらexchangeやらで23時30分ごろ空港を出発です。空港ロビーでガイドが出迎え、IIT-Delhiへと向かいました。

ガイドの「まずは楽しむことです。日本と違うことが多々ありますが、イライラするのではなくて『ここはインドなんだ』と思って楽しんでください。」というあいさつで始まりました。

（到着直後のインディラ・ガンジー国際空港の様子）

 

1. IIT-Delhiの学生との交流

初日の午前中は授業を受け、午後は研究室訪問、2日目の午前中も授業を受け、午後はゼミに参加するというものでした。

・授業について

　日本とあまり変わらないという印象でした。よく言われる「日本人は授業中に積極的に発言しようとしない」というものがありますが、生徒の主体性についてはインドも日本もあまり変わらないと思いました。学部生向けの講義を聴講したのですが、レベルについても我々が3年生で学ぶような内容であり、差は感じませんでした。

（授業の様子）

 

　一方で、授業は英語で行われており、修士以降の選択肢の幅は圧倒的にインドの学生のほうが多いと感じました。日本では学部の時は日本語で、修士からは英語で授業を行うということになっていますが、専門用語くらいは学部の時から教えてもよいのではないでしょうか。

・研究室訪問、ゼミについて

　橋梁研究室、土質力学、岩盤力学の研究室を訪問しました。どの研究室も活気があり、積極的に実験に参加していました。

　各研究室のドクターの方が説明をしてくれたのですが、専門用語が日本語でしか理解できないので、半分くらいは理解できませんでした。「君本当に修士の学生なの？」という顔をされてとてもつらかったです。

 

2. 日本企業への訪問

3日目はデリーメトロの建設現場見学およびHONDAの工場見学を行い、4日目は日本コンサルタンツ訪問およびJICA訪問を行いました。ここでは特に印象に残ったインドの方とどう働くかということについてまとめたいと思います。

・信頼関係の築き方について

　JICAの古橋さんによると、現地パートナーとの信頼関係をとても大切にしているそうです。特に「上から目線にならないこと、相手の立場になって考えること」「連絡はメールではなく双方向のコミュニケーションである電話で行うこと」という話は現地で働いている人ならではの気付きなのではと思いました。

・人材育成について

　インドは急成長しているとはいえ、日本企業が伝達できるノウハウはたくさんあります。HONDAの備中さんは「人の手でできるところはなるべく人で組み立てを行う」ということを実装したそうです。初期投資が少なく将来的な技術革新に対応しやすいという側面もありますが、「HONDAのphilosophyであるものづくりを体験してもらいたい」という側面もあるそうです。

（デリーメトロ建設現場の様子）

 

I participated in India study tour from 12^th to 20^th March. The objective of the tour was to visit IIT-Delhi and Japanese companies. Students in IIT-Delhi were passionate and hardworking, and Japanese companies working in India were very eager to contribute to Indian infrastructure. I visited JIC, HONDA and JICA, and I learnt lots of things from them.

It is my great honor to having spent one week in India, and I am sure that this amazing experience will keep influencing my life forever in a positive way.

2017年3月12日〜20日の期間で「インド工科大学デリー校と企業視察」のプログラムに参加し、インドのデリーを訪問しました。本プログラムでは、デリーメトロ建設現場、ムンバイ・アーメダバード間の新幹線プロジェクトを始めとする日本企業のインドでの活動を視察することができました。本レポートでは、上記プロジェクト及び本ツアー全体での感想を述べたいと思います。

 

デリーメトロ建設現場について

デリーメトロはJICAの円借款と技術支援の下で行われたプロジェクトでした。日本の安全基準と時間厳守の考えがインド人土木技術者の間で浸透し、プロジェクト期間内で完工するというインドでは異例？の事例であり、日本のODA案件でも最大の成功例の一つとして認識されています。今回の建設現場視察では掘削中のトンネル工事を見ることができました。地下鉄といっても日本の東京メトロ等と比較して地上走行区間も長く、合計5kmほど歩いて現場の雰囲気を感じ取ることができました。印象的だったのは、現場の土木職員達が誇りを持って進行中のプログラムについて語ってくれる点でした。トンネル現場視察の翌日は、JICAデリー事務所で勤務している社会基盤学科国際プロジェクト研究室出身の古橋さんにデリーメトロの詳細な説明や案内をして頂き、その後デリー事務所にてJICAの業務説明をして頂きました。私の所属研究室の先輩ということで、気軽に有意義なお話をたくさんすることができました。デリーメトロはデリーの道路交通の状況を考えると信じがたいほど優れたサービス水準（時間正確性、社内の快適さ）を誇っていました。また、その後JICAデリー事務所長からご講演いただき、その際にデリーメトロが女性の社会進出を促進したという話に感銘を受けました。デリーの地下鉄では、運行時間帯は女性専用車両が完備されている為、これまで屋外に出ることを躊躇していた女性が安心して移動できるという、交通渋滞緩和以外の側面でも貢献していることを確認できた。

 

新幹線プロジェクトについて

2015年に日本政府がインド政府と結んだグローバル戦略的協定の一環として、デリー・アーメダバード間で500kmに及ぶ新幹線を日本の培った技術力を用いて導入するという事例です。インドは今後国内に8つの高速鉄道を整備する計画を立てており、その第一歩として本プロジェクトが計画されています。近年これまで援助対象であった開発途上国地域へのインフラ海外輸出が盛んであり、費用面で勝る中国などとの受注競争に今後勝っていく為には、本プロジェクトを5年という期間内で終わらせ、施工後の安全管理を確保することは今後の日本政府のインフラ輸出計画において非常に重要です。今回のツアーでは、日本工営・オリエンタルコンサルタンツグローバル・日本コンサルタンツ3社の合弁会社を訪問しました。プログラム前半で学生側からインドへの新幹線導入時に想定される問題点について発表を行い、その後現地社員からフィードバックを受けるという形式でした。世界最大の民主主義国家であるインドでは、土地収用の段階が非常に困難かつ時間を要するため、住民側と可能な限り迅速に協議すること、そしてインドでは土木技術者の技術水準が未だに非常に低い為、技術教育が重要であることを知りました。現地企業ではインド人の建設コンサルタントもいらっしゃり、非常に優秀かつ質問に丁寧に答えてくれるのが印象的だった。

 

その他

本ツアー期間中はインド工科大学デリー校のゲストハウスに滞在した。到着翌日はホーリー祭に参加し、現地の学生と色粉を体に塗りつけあい、親交を深めることができた。食事について、やはり現地のカレーは非常に美味しかった。日本食を食べる機会が何回かあった為、最後まで飽きることなくはなかった。物価は非常に安く、大学の食堂では100ルピー前後で十分な食事を取ることができた。また、今回のツアーでは本田技研工業、東京大学インド事務所を見学する機会を設けて頂きました。

 

まとめ・謝辞

インドはshantaramという小説を読んでからずっと訪問したいと思っていた国であり、今回のツアーでインドの風土、国民性など全てが好きになった。来年以降もこのプログラムが続くのであれば、是非参加することを薦めたい。参加する場合は、ワクチン注射は必ずしてから行くべきです。また、今回のツアーを実現していただいた、蘇先生・小山さんには本当に感謝しております。また、ツアーガイドの方、参加した学生の皆さんも本当にありがとうございました。

新幹線同級に関する議論の最中　　　　　　　　　　　ゲストハウスでの様子

インドツアーで印象的だった3つのこと

この報告書は私が今回のインドツアーで印象的だった3つのことについて記述するものである。インド工科大学デリー校の訪問をはじめコンテンツが非常に充実したツアーであったが、その中でも特に印象的だったデリーメトロ現場見学、ホンダ工場見学、インド人学生との交流について書かせていただく。

1 デリーメトロ

デリーメトロとはデリー市内を走る地下鉄である。現在6路線を有しており、総延長約193km、駅は148ある。日本のインドODA案件で最も成功を収めている案件と言われており(途上国大規模工事案件にもかかわらず工期短縮に成功、工事における”安全”の概念の導入、乗車ルールの設定による乗客モラルの向上など)、日本のODAの一つのモデルケースとされ研究も積極的に行われている。今回のツアーでは建設現場の見学と駅構内の様子を実際に利用して視察した。

　まず建設現場であるが、印象的だったのが作業員と管理者の関係が非常に明確であることであった。管理者の方が工事の内容や設備について説明してくださったのだが、その説明しているときに工事作業が行われ、騒音により説明の内容が聞こえなくなるとヒンディー語で「やめろ！！」と強く作業員を怒鳴りつけるのだ。これは管理者の腰が低く、作業員となるべく友好な関係を築き上げようとする日本の建設現場とは大きく違うもので、カーストや教育レベルによる明確な地位のクラシフィケーションがなされているのだなと感慨深いものであった。2点目に印象的だったのが工事現場全体がおっとりしているということだ。単純に作業員が少なく、ローテを組んでいないだけかもしれないが、基本的に作業している作業員の数は日本の比で少なく、また休んでいる人の割合も大きかった。私たちが現場見学の休憩をはさむと一緒にジュースとチップスを食べ、セルフィーを行うかれらの健やかな表情を見るに、非常にワークライフバランスがとれた労働環境になっているのではないかと推察される。これだけの余裕をもって現場を回していける十分に余裕をもった計画策定が行われているのだろうか。総じてインドの労働事情の一面を垣間見ることが出来る良い機会であった。(本来の視察の目的とは離れるかもしれないが。)

　次に実際の利用を伴ったメトロの視察であるが、これは駅構内に大きく設けられたデリーメトロ事業の意義プロバガンダとその中でファンディングを行った日本のJICAが大きく強調されている点が非常に興味深かった。というのも国際協力の授業において「日本のODAの目的が自国の利益重視」へと舵切られ「ODAの見える化」が叫ばれている一方でそういった事例はまだまだ少ないということを学習したからだ。このような日本の貢献が見える化され、日印の友好関係に大きく寄与するような事業が今後も広く行われていくことを祈るばかりである。

工事現場（地下）の様子　　　　　　　　　　　　　　                                現場見学後の様子　作業員も一緒に休憩を楽しんでいた

 ２．　ホンダ工場

　日本が誇る世界的自動車メーカの一つであるホンダはインドに二つ工場を持っており、今回はそのうちの一つである〇〇工場を見学させていただいた。この工場単体で自動車の各種部品の製造から組み立て・塗装まですべて行える設備が搭載されており、ホンダのアジアの生産拠点の中でもかなり重要な位位置付けであるようだ。この工場の建設に際し、昨今の自動化の波に逆らい「なるべく自動化をしない」ということがテーマとされた。その理由としてインドは人件費も物価もいまだに低く、自動化を行ってもコストカットの幅が限られ、高い初期投資費を捻出する意義が少ないことが挙げられていた。実際工場を回らせていただいたが、どうしてもロボットで作業しなければ著しく効率性が落ちる部分以外に関しては、ほぼ人間の手で作業が行われていたようだった。従業員の教育も徹底しており、工場内に専門の教育センターが設けられてた。(余談だがスタッフの間で一番人気の工程は巨大ロボットを操作する工程だそうだ。)
この行程で自分にとって興味深かったことはグローバルに起こっている経営の合理化の潮流に対してのホンダの哲学の在り方だ。資本市場との対話が重視されている昨今、効率的に利益を上げることが求められいるが、その潮流にも動じないホンダのものづくりへの精神が印象的であった。先の話にもつながるが積極的に人材教育を行い、現地の製造業のレベル向上に貢献しようとする点や、販売価格を抑え利益が限りなく0になってしまっても現在の薄利多売の方針を崩さないなど哲学を決してぶらさないホンダのインド法人の経営方針は自分の中のいままでの価値観と相反するものであり、衝撃であった。

3 インド人学生との交流

　ツアー行程にはもともと含まれてはいなかったが偶然にもIITDの生物化学科の生徒と交流する機会があり、彼女の身の上話や将来の目標の話を聞くなどした。名前はAnantさん、22歳。可愛らしい笑顔がとてもチャーミングな彼女だが、出身の地域での女子学生としては初のIIT合格者であるらしく(そのせいか地元紙のニュースになったらしい)その自信とエネルギーは筆舌に尽くしがたいものであった。彼女の話(日本人の恋人の話や小学校のボランティアの話など)はぼんやりと人生を送ってきた私にとって非常に刺激的で身を省みさせられるものであったが、何よりも刺激的だったのがその視座の高さだ。IITDにマークザッカーバーグが来る機会があったそうだが、その時5人しかできない質問に選ばれたことを非常に誇りに思い(ちなみにこれも新聞に掲載されたらしい)、いつの日かマークザッカーバーグのような何者かになることを信じてやまない。世界で5人しか選ばれないオックスフォードのリサーチプログラムに応募し合格。自分がガンになったことから生物化学と生物機械のダブルディグリーでマスターを取り、そのような大きな病気をなくそうと尽力したいと考えているらしい。総じて常に世界を見ており、その中で自分がどういう存在になっていくかをしっかりと考え、非常に高いモチベーションでそれに向かいたゆまぬ努力を続けているのが見て取れた。この体験が自分にとって、この旅でなによりも衝撃的で価値観を揺さぶられた貴重な経験であり。今後の人生自分が社会的存在としてどうなっていきたいのか、そしてそのためにどんなレベルの努力をしていかなければならないのか再興させられるに至った。残り1年の修士、そしてその後の社会人生活をこの出来事を忘れずに、努力していきたい。

 

 

In this tour, there are 3 point by which I felt really impressed.

 Field trip to Delhi metro construction site and the office of Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA)

1. Factory tour for a Honda car factory.in India
2. Communication with an Indian student in IITD.

 All of them were definitely great experiences that I would have never gotten by myself and were very impressive because I was able to get to know about activities of Japanese institute and company in India and the level of top Indian students. Especially the third one was amazing, which was communication with a girl who had much high level of view about the career of herself.

These experiences gave me the chance to reconsider my career vision and future life plan.

Thanks for this tour and foundation of it.

　　　　　　　　　　

3月12日(日)～3月20日(月)の日程で「工学系研究科インド工科大学デリー校と現地企業視察」に参加した。私にとってインド訪問は初めてであったが、体調を崩すこともなく充実した9日間を過ごすことができた。本報告書では、感想を交えながら内容の行程述べ、最後に英語で全体の総括を述べる。

 

Holi祭の体験（3月13日）

Holi祭という、ヒンドゥー教の春の訪れを祝う祭りを体験した。すれ違った人に色粉を塗り合ったり、色水を掛け合ったりする祭りである。全身ずぶ濡れになって寒かったが、インドならではの祭りを楽しむことができた。このHoli祭で、インド滞在2日目にしてさっそく、インドの水を口にしてしまったが、お腹は幸いにして無事だった。

 

授業への参加と研究室訪問 (3月14日)

午前中には構造力学や水理学といった授業を受けた。学部３年生の授業ということもあり扱っている内容はさほど難しくないように感じたが、専門用語などの英語力不足のため、理解するのが難しかった。午後の研究室訪問でも、専門用語が分からず、話についていけなくなることがしばしばあった。専門用語の英語に慣れていく必要性に学部３年生の時点で気づくことができたのは良かったと思う

 

授業への参加と研究紹介 (3月15日)

午前中には鋼構造や水理学、空間情報学といった授業を受けた。この日も上記のような専門用語の英語の必要性を感じた。また、それに加え、IIT Delhiの生徒の意識の高さを感じさせられた。席は前の方から埋まっていき、授業中にも質問が飛び交う。遅刻をする人はほとんどいない。学校には勉強しに来ていると言わんばかりの姿勢だった。私も初心に戻り、勉強に対する姿勢というものを考え直さなければいけないと思わされた。

デリーメトロの工事現場見学及びHondaの工場視察 (3月16日)

午前中はインドのデリーメトロの工事現場を見学した。多少物が乱雑に放置されている様子が目についたが、気になった点はそのくらいで、想像していたよりはまともな工事現場のように感じた。午後にはHondaの工場を見学した。インドの人件費が安いことを最大限生かすために、機械化を最低限に抑え初期投資を少なくしているらしい。「機械化は儲けてから。」という方針は現地に適応したものだろう。海外での事業は、日本のものをそのまま導入するのではうまくいかないことも多いということを実感できた視察であった。

日本コンサルタンツ視察及びデリーメトロ視察とJICA事業説明 (3月17日)

午前中は、日本コンサルタンツでインドの新幹線のパッケージ型インフラ輸出における問題点に関して英語でプレゼンテーションをしてその後、新幹線事業に関して詳しい説明を受けた。午後には、デリーメトロに実際に乗車した。電光掲示板に表示される時間通りに電車は到着し、乗客は整列乗車をしている。日本の技術とともにその文化もしっかり根付いていることを見ることができた。そして、夕方には、JICAの事務所に訪問し、海外事業をする際の難しさやその克服方法など様々なことの説明を受けることができた。

タージマハル及びアグラ城見学 (3月18日)

この日は、往復7時間ほどかけてタージマハルとアグラ城を見に行った。なんといってもタージマハルは壮大だった。息をのむとはこういうことかと思わされた。その大理石で造られた巨大な構造物はムガル帝国の栄華、そしてシャー・ジャハーンのムムターズ・マハルに対する愛の大きさを物語っていた。

 

デリー観光 (3月19日)

この日はインドにいる最終日ということもあり、朝7時から観光した。レッド・フォートと呼ばれる城塞やシク教の寺院、レールミュージアムなどに行った。シク教の寺院では、現地の人に教えてもらいながら、シク教の文化を体感することができた。レールミュージアムでもインドの鉄道の歴史の長さを実感させられた。

Summary

I took part in this program for the following two objective. Firstly, I wanted to interact students in IIT Delhi. In fact, I had time to talk to some students. However, I could not talk about study, because I had not studied for research papers. Therefore I would like to take part in this program once more in the master’s course. Secondly, I wanted to know overseas projects. In fact, I could see construction site in Delhi Metro and learn many overseas projects. It helped me to understand overseas business.

I could also go sightseeing in India, and have a chance to understand Indian culture. For example, I visited Gurudwara Bangla Sanib, one of the most prominent Sikh house of worship. In this place, a man teach me how to sightsee. Thank to him, I could put on a turban, sightsee such like others in this place.

Moreover, I learned many things in India. For example, I think that I should study technical terms in English and improve my English skills. In fact, I could not often understand what technical terms meant and what was said because of my poor English skills. It disappointed me.

In this way, through this program I had great experience. Therefore I thank those who prepared for this program and gave me this chance.

 

 

Incredibly incredible India

3/12　　~Go to India~

Our airplane delayed because of the maintenance and changing the plane, so we waited for about 3 years. Therefore, our arrival time at IIT Delhi was around 12 PM. We stayed at Faculty Guest House in the campus. The faculty of it was not so good. The bed was comfortable for me, but the bathroom was poor. And I paid attention to tap water because, in India, it is said that the tap water was harmful for Japanese, so I used the bottled water when brushing, drinking, and rinsing out my mouth.

3/13　　~Walking around the campus and taking part in Holi festival~

Mr. Lav the Ph.D. student IIT Delhi, came and showed us the campus. When we were walking, students walked up to me, and they painted us! This was the Holi festival at that time. In this festival, people celebrate spring coming and people paint other people. We went Me, Lav’s hostel, then in the yard students were sprinkling other people with water, painting friends and dancing with music. There were some DJs. First we were overwhelmed by the power of IIT students, but at last, we danced together with shout. My face remained red for three days because of ink.

3/14　　~Class in IIT Delhi and looking their labs~

We participated in the class (perhaps for Bachelor 3rd) in IIT Delhi. Some teachers didn’t appear in the classroom. It was what is called ‘the time in India.’ Then the class started. The class was interesting because the contents were similar to that in Japan but the lectures were held in English. I could fully understand if Japanese was used in the class, but I wasn’t able to understand many of contents. The teacher and students spoke so fast and also I didn’t know many technical terms. This was shocked to me. Which students would the companies like to need? I could not help thinking that the answer was Indian students. It may be true that Japanese don’t yield to them in several points, but they were better than Japanese in saying what they thought. Namely, they were good at the output. In this way, I felt it was important to be able to use English. Now I believe that much of the class should be held in English when the students are Bachelor (In many master course, students use English), though I protested to it.

After having lunch, we observed their laboratories, which were related to civil engineering. For example, concrete structures laboratory, materials research laboratory and so on. I am interested in transportation so I was looking forward to visiting transportation laboratory, but because of lacking members, we didn’t visit there, unfortunately. In general, labs and companies have stronger connection than in Japan and the labs are asked to research something. Colleges take a role of consulting companies. The faculty of the labs was quite poor.

3/15　　~ Class and presentation in Delhi ~

In this day, we also joined the class. Of course it was difficult to able to understand, but I was able to understand better than yesterday, and, I tried asking them to tell me one more time, which was the change of me. I was gaining confidence in communicating with foreign people.

In evening, we visited the Todai office in India. The chief representative of there, Mr.Yoshino, told me about India such as culture, thought, religion and economy in India. For supper, he took us into Japanese restaurant. It was nice Tendon!

Classroom                                                            Todai Office

3/16 　　~Delhi Metro and Honda~

In the morning, we went to a part period of Delhi Metro which was under construction. It was precious time because the new Metro in Japan is not planed now, so we cannot see the construction site of the metro. The shield tunnel is used. The site was neat, I thought, but it seemed that the staffs are lazy, though it is said that one of the most important factors of realizing Delhi Metro is to change the attitude of Indian’s workmen. I thought it was difficult to change the mind of labors in India.

After that, we visited the factory of Honda in India. The president of Indian Honda graduated in our department, so he coordinated this tour. Thanks to him, the chief of factory showed us around. We were able to see where we cannot enter in Japanese factories. The chief told us about the aim for Honda to realize. Soichiro Honda is famous president in Japan and it is well known that his philosophy is enthusiastic and stimulating. That philosophy also exists in India. If people in Delhi had this spirits, this country would change better. I hope workmen in Delhi Metro should

know it. On the other hand, in Japan, that thought starts to be regarded as old one. Should we change the thoughts against business as the economy are growing? Does not the essential of business change? It is difficult problem.

Inside Delhi Metro                              Entrance of HONDA                                      Conference Room in HONDA

3/17　　~Japan International Consultants and JICA~

Japan International Consultants (JIC) is a new company for consulting high-speed railways in India. This company was founded after India decided to adopt Japanese Shinkansen. The staff came from Japanese companies such as Japan Railway East, Nippon Koei and Oriental consultants. We had prepared our presentation for this visit, and made a presentation in front of them. In that presentation, we explained the risk if India adopted the Shinkansen system exactly as it was, and suggested the solutions. After that, they commented about suggestions in our presentation.

In the afternoon, we visited the JICA office in India. On the way to go there, Ms.Furuhashi, a staff of JICA and graduator of our department came to see and showed us around the city of Delhi. I was surprised to see the sight of Chawri Bazar. There were many cables along the houses. The staff said that they were for stealing electricity, what was called ‘theft.’ There were many people. Some people sat, some were lying, and others sold some foods. There were many vehicles such as cars, taxis and auto rickshaws (three-wheeled taxi). We could always hear beeps. That city was ‘chaos.’ On the other hand, I felt enormous energy and potential.

After we arrived at the office of JICA, Ms. Furuhashi explained the activities of JICA India, and the chief representative, Mr. Sakamoto, explained not only the activities in India, but also philosophy in JICA. I was impressed and was able to understand the spirit of JICA.

JIC                                                                          Chawri Bazar                                     JICA Office in India

3/18, 3/19 Sightseeing such as Taj Mahal and Red Fort

After we finished main activities, we went to some world heritages such as Taj Mahal and Red Fort. Also, I went to bazars on the street. By both experiences, I could know culture and tradition in India.

 総括

インドと日本の高速鉄道での関係、そしてインドとはどういう国かを視察しに行ったわけだが、日本、そしていま自分が置かれている状況を客観視することが出来た。総括として、前者は英文で触れたので後者について和文で書く。

その瞬間瞬間を存分に楽しんでいるインド人を見てどことなく羨ましく感じ日本人の性格について考えさせたり、インドで働く日本人の苦労とやりがいに触れたり、そしてとりわけ同年代のIIT生で、自分よりはるかに大きく自分のフィールドを設定している姿に感銘を受けるのと同時に、自分の視野の今までの狭さに落胆したりした。今回の研修は、インドの高速鉄道の視察だったが、それ以上のものを得られた。これらはきっと自分の今後のキャリア形成に影響を及ぼすだろう。このプログラムを皆に勧めたい。