2026
You Already Know Japan.
Now Japan Wants to Know You.
Open to STEM students and young professionals across India. August to November 2026.
- Open to STEM Students & Young Professionals
- 2 Innovation Tracks
- August – November 2026
0
students already registered
2
Innovation Tracks
4
Programme Stages
4
Outcomes & Prizes
India × Japan
Bridging Two Nations of Innovation
Backed by Japanese companies, government initiatives, and leading Indian universities working together.
Process
How It Works
Four steps from registration to shortlisting with Japanese companies.
Register
Register as an individual and complete your STEM profile.
Verification
Complete verification with your documents and university email.
AI Interview
Your AI Interview will be scheduled after registration — we'll email you the details.
Takumi Challenge
Submit your Takumi Challenge solution and get shortlisted.
Challenge
Available Tracks
All participants can explore every track before submitting.
Tracks Coming Soon
Track details will be announced here soon. Register now to be notified as soon as they're available.
Outcomes
Prizes & Outcomes
Every participant gains value — whether selected or not.
Japan Visit via GSJTI
Finalists may be eligible for the government-supported Japan visit programme.
Internship Offers
Direct internship and project offers from participating Japanese companies.
Verified DirectorS Talent Profile
Your evaluated profile stays active in the DirectorS talent database for future cycles.
Certificates for All Participants
Every participant who completes the programme receives a certificate of participation.
Schedule
Programme Timeline
From registration in August to the Japan visit starting November.
September
Registration, Verification & AI Interview
September – October
Innovation Challenge & Evaluation
October – November
Final Interviews & Offers
November – January
Onboarding & Japan Visit
Help
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before registering.
Yes. Registration and participation in the Takumi Challenge are completely free for all eligible STEM students and young professionals in India.
No. The programme is conducted in English. Japanese language skills are not required, though interest in Japan and Japanese companies is essential.
Yes. Young professionals who graduated in 2023 or later and are currently employed in a STEM-related role in India are eligible to participate.
Students must submit their institutional university email and college ID card. Professionals must upload their degree certificate or final year marksheet. The DirectorS team reviews all submissions.
Approximately 15-20 hours total across all stages. The Takumi Challenge itself is a 10-day window and is designed to be solvable with focused effort in 6-8 days.
Apply Now
Your Japan Journey Starts Here
Complete your profile to be considered for Stage 1 evaluation.
Register NowJoin 0 students who have already registered