An International Internship Exchange Programme was organised at SDM College, Ujire, for a visiting team from Japan comprising Mr Goto Ryohei and Ms Ikeda Akari, students, and Ms Okutani Kyoko, Ms Tanaka Akemi and Ms Sujana Shakya, faculty members. The team visited SDM College from 27 August to 1 September 2026 and returned to Japan on 2 September 2026. The two students are also undertaking a one-month internship programme in India.
On the first day at SDM College, the visiting team was welcomed and introduced to SDMES through a presentation by Mr Pooran Varma, followed by an overview of the college by the Principal. The programme schedule and activities were also briefed to the visitors. They subsequently visited the College Library and Journalism Studio, gaining an insight into the academic and media facilities of the institution.
On the following day, the team visited the SDM Cultural Centre, where they were introduced to Indian dance forms, dance mudras, Navarasa expressions and traditional costumes. They also participated in a drama workshop and witnessed demonstrations of Yakshagana costume, expressions and make-up, providing them with practical exposure to Karnataka’s traditional performing arts.
During the visit, the team also explored Dharmasthala and Mangalore and visited several places of cultural and educational significance, including the Manjusha Museum, Annapoorna Kitchen, Shanthivana, SDM Women’s ITI, Home Science Department and Rathnamanasa. They also visited Agreleaf Company and Sanidhya Queue Complex, and participated in a food exchange programme, giving them an opportunity to experience local culture, food, education and enterprise.
The programme concluded with local sightseeing and shopping in Mangalore before their departure for Japan on 2 September 2026. Overall, the visit provided a meaningful platform for cultural exchange, academic interaction and practical learning, while strengthening the relationship between the Japanese participants and SDM College, Ujire. The visit was coordinated and supported throughout by staff members Mr. Praveena D, Dr. Malini Anchan, Mr. Aravind, and Mr. Truptha Jain, along with Ms. Sanjana, a student coordinator. Mrs. Manorama, an active member of Rotary, was also present throughout the visit and extended her support.
