Japan gives away research scholarships to 11 Pakistanis

Islamabad : The government of Japan has awarded eleven outstanding Pakistani students the esteemed MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology of Japan) research scholarships for the 2025 academic year.

The scholarships will enable the students to pursue master’s and doctoral degrees at leading Japanese universities, fostering academic excellence and strengthening bilateral ties, according to the Embassy of Japan.

It said the MEXT research scholarship, a flagship programme of the Japanese government, provided fully funded opportunities for graduate and postgraduate studies worldwide, including Pakistan. In addition, numerous Pakistani students also secure MEXT scholarships annually through direct applications to Japanese universities. On Friday, the Embassy of Japan organised a pre-departure orientation session for the scholarship recipients.

The session featured detailed briefings on the programme, along with invaluable insights and personal experiences shared by Pakistani alumni of Japanese universities. These alumni offered practical advice and guidance to the new scholars as they prepared to embark on their academic journey in Japan. Following the orientation, Ambassador of Japan Akamatsu Shuichi hosted an iftar reception at his official residence here to honour members of the MEXT Alumni Association of Pakistan and bid farewell to the departing scholarship recipients.

He congratulated the students on their remarkable achievement and extended his best wishes for their studies at Japan’s prestigious institutions and said the MEXT Research Scholarship offered a transformative experience, combining world-class education with the opportunity to immerse themselves in Japanese culture and society.

"I hope that the scholars would return to Pakistan with advanced knowledge and enriching experiences, contributing to the nation's progress and serving as bridges of friendship between Japan and Pakistan, in collaboration with MAAP alumni." The envoy also acknowledged and appreciated MAAP's efforts in promoting Japanese educational and cultural activities, reinforcing the strong bond between the two countries.

Established in 1954, the MEXT research scholarship programme has benefited numerous Pakistani students since the first recipient traveled to Japan in 1963.