Contributing to Benin's Agriculture with Japanese Technology
2025/04/08 15:46
Contributing to Benin's Agriculture with Japanese Technology
We had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Migan, an international student from Benin who also participated in the International Red-White Singing Festival.
Mr. Migan, your performance of Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s “Tombo” at the International International Red-White Singing Festival was incredible! Today, we’d like to hear about your journey to studying robotics in Japan. Could you start by telling us about your dreams during high school?
Originally, I aspired to become a doctor. However, I realized that attending medical school required significant time and financial resources. That’s when I reconsidered and thought, “If I study AI and robotics, I could create something that benefits people.” I began studying electrical and electronic engineering at a university in Benin, but unfortunately, there were no institutions specializing in robotics in my home country.
Is that what led you to decide to study abroad in Japan?
Yes. While researching, I was shocked to learn that 60% of the world’s industrial robots are made in Japan. I thought, “I have to study there.” But first, I needed to learn Japanese… (smiling) When I contacted the embassy, I discovered that there was a free Japanese language school in my hometown! It was the Takeshi Japanese Language School founded by Mr. Zomahoun.
What was the atmosphere like at that school?
The classroom had a distinctly Japanese feel, with a photo of Takeshi Kitano displayed at the back and calligraphy and origami scattered around. There were Japanese teachers and about 100 students, where we could deeply learn both the language and culture. I attended for five years while also going to university.
After gaining experience with a Japanese company, you realized your dream of studying in Kobe?
After graduating from university, I worked for a Japanese-affiliated company in Benin. It was there that I learned about JICA’s scholarship program. With the support of my company president, I applied and enrolled at Kobe Institute of Computing in October 2022. After completing a two-year master’s program, I am now pursuing my doctoral studies at Konan University.
Could you tell us about your specific research?
I’m developing a robot for harvesting corn, which is a staple food in Benin! My research focuses on using AI to determine ripeness and harvest crops without damaging them. At Kobe City’s Africa Business Contest, I won the Student Award, and meeting Mr. Taguchi from Borderless Japan was an inspiring experience as well.
What has stood out to you about life in Japan?
I was amazed by how energetic elderly people are! The convenience of trains and the revolutionary features of rice cookers also impressed me (laughing). I love tsukemen (dipping noodles), but wasabi’s spiciness caught me off guard… Also, I’ve attended Tsuyoshi Nagabuchi’s concerts twice! During my time at the Japanese language school, I learned his song “Kanpai,” and he became an idol of mine.
What are your future goals?
I want to expand these harvesting robots not only in Benin but across the world. Practicing Aikido at Konan University and interacting with local children and fellow international students has deepened my appreciation for the connection between technology and humanity. After earning my doctorate, I plan to teach back home in Benin and give back by sharing the knowledge I’ve gained in Japan—that’s my mission.
Speaking with such an ambitious international student was truly inspiring. It seems that at Benin’s Japanese language school, students not only learn Japanese but also gain insights into Japanese ways of thinking and interpersonal connections—making it an enjoyable experience overall. We hope Mr. Migan’s dreams come true and that more students from Benin will come to Japan in the future!( editor Kazumi Miyazaki of Globalcommunity)
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