Students from MSB Institutes in India and Dubai visited Japan this October for a 10-day excursion, exploring the cities of Tokyo, Osaka and Hiroshima.
This trip, organised by the Attalimiyah (Education) Department of the Dawoodi Bohra community, had 121 students and 11 teachers experience Japanese culture, history and hospitality, while making friends and forging bonds.
The journey enriched the travellers by emphasising cultural preservation, the power of modern technology, and the art of interacting with people from diverse backgrounds.
“Japan balances centuries-old traditions with cutting-edge technology, evident in places like Kyoto where ancient temples stand beside a futuristic skyline. This harmony shows how heritage and innovation can coexist,” said Rozmin Chhatariya, a class 11 student from Rajkot.
Throughout their stay, students explored heritage sites such as Osaka Castle, modern marvels like the Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower and breathed in the majestic view of Japan’s tallest peak, Mount Fuji.
Nafisa Kalangi, a Vice Principal from Kolkata, highlighted the educational aspects, “The tour provided stimulating STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) learning experiences. At the JAXA Tsukuba Space Center and Miraikan Museum, students explored advancements in aerospace, robotics, and AI, whereas travelling in the Shinkansen or bullet train highlighted sustainable infrastructure and the value of punctuality.”
Huzaifa Jariwala is a resident of Chiba, Tokyo, for the past 25 years. He and his daughter Batool played a leading role in crafting and managing the tour’s itinerary.
Batool shared, “We were initially concerned about managing time since everything in Japan runs on a tight schedule. It was challenging to coordinate a large group, and some students missed parts of their experience early on. However, they quickly embraced punctuality, which is the Japanese way of life, adapting wholeheartedly as the days went by.”
Hawra Hararwala, a class 8 student from Chennai, echoed this sentiment, “A key lesson I learned is that when you are in a team, staying and working together achieves the best outcome for all and optimises time management.”
Students also delved into timeless Japanese practices such as Bonsai making, with a visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial being the biggest highlight.
“Visiting the memorial stirred their emotions to the core,” said Husain Abbasi, a senior administrator at the Attalimiyah Department.
“Understanding that technology can lead to devastation made them appreciate the importance of peace and harmony,” he continued.
Juzer and Jumana Bharmal are also residents who worked alongside Huzaifa to plan the trip. Juzer said, "My wife and I dedicated ourselves full-time during our respective days with the group, ensuring the trip went smoothly. While the effort required was significant, the students’ eagerness and the teachers’ cooperation made it incredibly fulfilling."
Jumana reflected, "Witnessing the students’ enthusiasm and curiosity made all the effort worthwhile. I feel truly blessed to have been part of such a meaningful experience, which was a testament to teamwork and shared vision."
Students admired Japanese values of honesty, politeness and cleanliness while they observed everyday interactions.
Reflecting on the outcomes of the trip, Husain said, “I have witnessed a boost in students' confidence, their ability to manage themselves, and their appreciation for discipline and honesty.”
As the trip concluded, students were so impressed with their experience, that many expressed interest in settling down in Japan. The journey was a tapestry of natural, technical and emotional learning which will be etched in the hearts of students and promises to contribute to their holistic development as responsible global citizens.
