Cover photo: EU Ambassador to Japan, Jean-Eric Paquet, addressing the Vulcanus alumni.

On 18 December 2023, approximately 30 people, consisting of Vulcanus Alumni and current participants, convened at the EU Delegation to Japan venue in Tokyo. The gathering organized by the EU-Japan staff, served as a platform where Vulcanus success stories inspired present participants.

The event kicked off with impactful remarks from Jean-Eric Paquet, the Ambassador of the EU to Japan. Subsequently, five Vulcanus alumni shared presentations highlighting their respective success stories, showcasing the notable careers they've forged in prestigious companies, which stemmed from their Vulcanus year in Japan. Notably, for some of them, that year in Japan was as far back as the 2005-6 session.

Following the informative session, a small reception took place, providing an opportunity for current Vulcanus participants to engage in discussions with their predecessors. They sought valuable tips and guidance in anticipation of their upcoming Vulcanus chapter – the industrial traineeship at a company based in Japan. Moreover, the latest Vulcanus cohort gathered valuable information and insights to aid in the development of the industrial report that they are expected to write during their Vulcanus experience.

The event garnered enthusiastic support from both Vulcanus Alumni and current participants, who were eager to attend similar gatherings in the future.

Vulcanus in Japan started in 1997. The 1-year long programme for students in engineering and other scientific fields consists of a seminar about Japan, an intensive Japanese language course, and an industrial placement.