The smile of a child playing in Peace Park (Nagasaki) embodies the essence of hope.
Throughout life, there are fleeting moments and brief encounters with individuals whose profound impact remains indefinitely. I still remember the laboratory diagnosis training course I participated in 2006, guided by Hiroaki Nishikawa, a Japanese professor, and JICA expert resident in my Faculty. I was deeply impressed by his organizational skills, dedication, and meticulous attention to detail, which transformed his laboratory in Syria into a hub of scientific inquiry, for both, researchers and students. Those days ignited my passion for scientific research, academia, and admiration for Japanese culture.
Years later, the Syrian war began in 2011, leaving devastating consequences that persist to this day, and broken communication between my university and the global scientific community, which adversely impacted researchers’ knowledge and capabilities to stay abreast of the swif
t advancements in science worldwide.
In light of the aforementioned considerations, and to bridge the scientific divide between our knowledge and the realities observed in the developed world, I was inspired by the counsel of Professor Samer IBRAHIM, a former MIF fellow in 2003 to apply for the MIF competitive fellowship.
I was fortunate to be awarded the fellowship, which allowed me to work at Nagasaki University, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Department of Parasitology. I would like to express my gratitude to my supervisor, Professor Shinjiro HAMANO, for welcoming me and providing me the chance to engage in research on one of the most significant parasites affecting Syria, the Leishmania parasite, and also for investigating the immune responses associated with it.
During my time in Japan, I encountered numerous remarkable experiences and was embraced by the kindness of the Japanese people, who extend their assistance to strangers in extraordinary ways. On the other hand, what resonated with me most profoundly was the rich history of Nagasaki city. The second city which suffered the devastating consequences of nuclear weapons.
The city of Nagasaki, with its architecture, natural landscapes, green mountains that encircle the city, and inhabitants, embodies for me humanity’s unwavering commitment to life.
Throughout my time in Nagasaki, I used to visit the Peace Park every weekend, a renowned site frequented by visitors who come to pay their respects to the victims of the nuclear explosion. The most profound impression on my heart and mind was made by the sight of a three-year-old Japanese child joyfully running and laughing in the Peace Park. This child epitomizes the victory of beauty, life, and peace over war and destruction, and he fills me with hope for the future of my homeland, Syria.
As Dr. Matsumae articulated “one must overcome the petty significance of self-preservation and by putting one’s view of life on a firm base and formulating for oneself a view of the world and history, discover the real nature of one’s mission vis-à-vis society.” Upon concluding my tenure in Japan, I intend to return to my country with a renewed perspective, aiming to enhance the scientific knowledge within universities and to share the invaluable lessons I have learned from the Japanese people to help rejuvenate my homeland.
In closing, I wish to express my gratitude to everyone at MIF, particularly Prof. Dr. Toshiaki HASHIMOTO and Ms. Yuka AMANO, as well as all members of the Department of Parasitology at Nagasaki University. This dream would not have been possible without your support.
November 2024
Assistant Professor, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hama University
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