(KPL) Lao students preparing to advance their scholarship studies in Japan under the Government of Japan’s MEXT scholarship received a fond farewell at a send-off reception held in Vientiane on Mar 15.

The reception was attended by Minister of Education and Sports and President of the Lao-Japan Friendship Association Phout Simmalavong, other honourable guests including officials from relevant organisations and Lao returnees from studies in Japan.

Over the last 30 years, the Government of Japan has accepted more than 1,300 Lao students to study in Japan under various scholarship programmes.

This year, a total of 28 students from the Lao PDR were awarded scholarships to study at graduate and undergraduate levels in Japan, as well as technical and specialized training colleges.

The scholars are expected to learn a lot during their time in Japan and then use experience, knowledge, and skills for future national and regional development. Ambassador of Japan to the Lao PDR Kobayashi Kenichi expressed his wish that the Lao students visit various areas of Japan, encouraging them to exchange and share experiences with many Japanese people while introducing them to the beautiful nature and rich culture of the Lao PDR.

Ambassador Kobayashi also noted that next year will mark the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Laos.

As various commemorative events for the anniversary will be held in Japan, Ambassador Kobayashi expressed his hope that the Lao students will be actively involved and encourage participation in these events to strengthen the bridge between the two countries.

Speaking on behalf of the current MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology) scholarship awardees was Ms. Shengkhin Saeteun who will undertake postgraduate study.

She expressed gratitude to the Government of Japan for the generous scholarships, as well as sharing all recipients’ renewed determination to study hard in Japan.

A returnee from previous studies in Japan, Ms. Souksavanh Chanthongsy, shared a presentation on her experiences and encouraged the next generation of scholars.

KPL