24 Cambodian Officials to Study in Japan on JDS Scholarships

Twenty-four Cambodian public officials have been granted the opportunity to study in Japan through the Human Development Support (JDS) scholarship program. Of these, 22 will pursue Master's degrees, while two will undertake Doctoral studies. The Japanese Embassy in Cambodia hosted a farewell reception for these students on the evening of August 4th at the Japanese Ambassador's residence in Phnom Penh. Mr. Kensuke Hasegawa, Chargé d'Affaires ad interim of the Japanese Embassy in Cambodia, expressed his hope that the students would make the most of every opportunity in Japan, not only in their academic pursuits but also in their daily lives outside the classroom. He encouraged them to build as many friendships as possible with Japanese people to gain support during their studies. Currently, Cambodia-Japan diplomatic relations are at the highest level of a "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," with both governments continuing to strengthen cooperation in all sectors. Mr. Hasegawa expressed his hope that the students would play a significant role in further strengthening this partnership by utilizing their knowledge and experiences to build a strong future for both Cambodia and Japan. Mr. Chin Malyn, Undersecretary of State for the Ministry of Justice, a former JDS scholar who completed a Master's degree in Political Science from Japan over 20 years ago, shared his warm congratulations and personal experiences as a JDS alumnus. He offered recommendations and important advice to the scholarship recipients, urging them to strive diligently in their studies both within educational institutions and in Japanese society and culture, and to foster friendships with the Japanese people. The JDS scholarship program was initiated by Japan in 2000 with the aim of supporting human resource development in Cambodia. It provides young officials working in key ministries and institutions with the opportunity to pursue Master's and Doctoral degrees in Japan. To date, nearly 600 Cambodian students have studied in Japan under the JDS program. Many graduates have been actively contributing to Cambodia's socio-economic development and have risen to become high-ranking officials within the Cambodian government.