The Student Exchange Program (SEP) hosted by Tokushima University Dental School, Japan, was held from 10–21 November 2025 in Tokushima City. Three representatives from the Faculty of Dentistry, Hasanuddin University: Muhammad Imran Taufiq (Clinical Student Batch 2021), Nadhira Assyifa (Preclinical Student Batch 2024), and Hanna Pratiwi (Preclinical Student Batch 2024) successfully participated in this prestigious international academic and cultural immersion program.

According to the delegates, the SEP is one of Tokushima University’s annual international initiatives that brings together dental students from partner institutions across Asia to engage in academic exchange, cultural learning, and exposure to Japan’s advanced dental education system.

Prior to their departure, the representatives underwent a highly competitive internal selection process, consisting of interviews and several necessary competency assessments to determine the official delegation from Hasanuddin University. The selected students were then granted the opportunity to join the two-week program alongside other international participant.

Throughout the program, the UNHAS delegation took part in a range of structured activities, including specialized lectures delivered by Tokushima University faculty, clinical and laboratory visits at the university hospital, cultural workshops highlighting traditional Japanese arts such as shodō (calligraphy), and visits to key tourist and historical sites in Tokushima. These activities provided a comprehensive academic experience while deepening their appreciation of Japanese culture and educational philosophy.

Imran, Nadhira, and Hanna shared that participating in the SEP was an invaluable experience, offering not only academic enrichment but also new perspectives, friendships, and potential pathways for future international collaboration in dental education and research.