Engaging High School Girls in Science through Summer School 2026 at Japan Women's University

Japan Women's University Summer School 2026

Japan Women's University (JWU), located in Bunkyo, Tokyo, is set to host its much-anticipated "Science Summer School 2026" from August 5th to 7th. This initiative aims to immerse high school girls in the fascinating world of science, offering them an opportunity to explore scientific concepts hands-on. JWU has a legacy of 22 years in organizing this event, having already engaged around 1,300 young women in enlightening science exploration.

Theme and Courses

This year's theme, "A Deeper Connection to Science this Summer," focuses on relatable scientific phenomena, such as smartphones, ultraviolet light, cells, and mechanics. Six distinct courses will be offered, targeting high school girls who either have a keen interest in mathematics, science, or information technology or who wish to overcome their challenges in these subjects while fostering their curiosity. Participants will benefit from the state-of-the-art laboratory facilities at JWU, allowing them to delve deeper into scientific concepts.

In addition to in-person sessions, an online course option will also be available, ensuring broader accessibility. Past attendees have praised the attentive guidance offered by JWU faculty, enhancing their learning experiences.

Event Details

- Event Dates: August 5 (Wednesday), 6 (Thursday), and 7 (Friday)
- Eligibility: Female high school students only
- Participation Fee: Free (each participant can enroll in up to two courses)
- Application Period: June 22 (Monday) to July 9 (Thursday)

Note: Enrollment is not on a first-come, first-served basis; should the maximum capacity be reached, a lottery will be conducted.

Course Offerings

The courses scheduled are as follows:

- August 5: Exploring Cells with High-Performance Microscopes

- Instructor: Professor Noriko Nagata (Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences)
- Time/Format: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, In-Person
- Capacity: 14 participants

- August 5: Extracting Information from Data

- Instructor: Specially Appointed Professor Mihoko Minami (Department of Mathematical and Information Sciences)
- Time/Format: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Online
- Capacity: 20 participants

- August 6: Clarifying Doubts from Textbooks

- Instructor: Professor Ryosuke Ishiguro (Department of Mathematical and Information Sciences)
- Time/Format: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM, Online
- Capacity: 20 participants

- August 6: Skin and Ultraviolet Light

- Instructor: Lecturer Saori Ichikawa (Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences)
- Time/Format: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, In-Person
- Capacity: 10 participants

- August 7: The Secrets of User Interface Supporting Smartphone Usability

- Instructor: Lecturer Kunihiro Kato (Department of Mathematical and Information Sciences)
- Time/Format: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM, Both In-Person and Online (25 in-person, no limit online)

- August 7: The Mechanism and Diversity of Color Vision

- Instructor: Professor Masashi Fukamachi (Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences)
- Time/Format: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM, Online
- Capacity: None

It's essential to check the program details and specific classroom information on the university's official website.

About Japan Women's University’s Department of Science

Established in 1992 as the only science department in a private women’s university in Japan, JWU has upheld a legacy of excellence in science education. The department boasts an array of experimental courses and well-equipped laboratory facilities, ensuring personalized guidance in small groups. Moreover, JWU is dedicated to nurturing capabilities that can address various challenges faced by humanity, the planet, and society, through a rigorous exploration of scientific truths.

Looking ahead, JWU plans to expand its Science Department into an Engineering Department (tentative title) in April 2029, aiming to adapt its educational programs to meet the evolving demands for scientific talent.

Emphasis on STEAM Education

Japan Women's University prioritizes STEAM education to foster skill sets that can contribute to economic growth and innovative endeavors. This encompasses science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, aimed at equipping students with creativity as well as analytical skills for the future.

For more detailed information on the Summer School and application processes, please refer to the provided links:

JWU stands as a pioneer in formal women’s higher education in Japan, celebrating its 120th anniversary in 2021. Equipped with a science department and a comprehensive educational environment, the university continues to cultivate individuals who can create new value and drive change.

In the coming academic year, JWU will unveil the Department of Architectural Design, add a Department of Food Science, and is planning further educational reforms with additional departments in the future. For more updates, visit Japan Women's University Official Website.