Three Fijian women awarded Japanese government scholarships

Three Fijian women have been awarded Japanese Government Scholarships and will soon depart to pursue their master’s degree studies in Japan.

The recipients — Aaeza Akbar, Vanessa Katafono and Lily Temo — were recognised during a send-off ceremony hosted by Japanese Ambassador Hiroshi Tajima at his residence in Tamavua on Monday evening.

The event was attended by education officials, alumni and invited guests, including Jito Vanualailai.

Mr Tajima congratulated the scholars and highlighted the importance of the programme in strengthening ties between Fiji and Japan.

He said since 1982, a total of 172 students from Fiji had studied in Japan under the scholarship, including 76 research students.

“Over the years, this programme has played an important role in strengthening the friendship between Fiji and Japan through people-to-people exchanges,” Ambassador Tajima said.

He said Japan valued the initiative and hoped more students from Fiji and the Pacific would benefit in future.

The scholarship programme is highly competitive and selection is considered a significant academic achievement.

Ms Akbar will pursue a Master’s degree in Architecture at the Kyoto Institute of Technology after completing a Bachelor of Science in Architecture at the International Islamic University Malaysia.

Ms Katafono, a graduate of the University of the South Pacific in Marine Science and currently an intern with the Pacific Community, will study Marine Bioresources and Environmental Science at Hokkaido University.

Ms Temo, a geospatial assistant with the Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources, will study Environmental Science and Civil Engineering at Saitama University.

Ambassador Tajima encouraged the scholars to immerse themselves in Japan’s culture, history and cuisine while building connections.

He also urged them to serve as bridges between Fiji and Japan.

“Living in a new country may sometimes present challenges, but I hope your time in Japan will be both fruitful and enjoyable and open many exciting opportunities for your future,” he said.