Saturday 16 / November / 2024
MANY OMANI students in the past were granted scholarships in Japan and still continue to get higher education opportunities in an effort to build a cultural bridge between the two friendly countries.
Heads of Oman’s universities praise the efforts of the Japanese Embassy in Muscat in promoting education cooperation between the two countries.
“Oman-Japan Cultural Exchange Scholarship Programme aims to build a bridge of arts, culture and education between students and young people of Oman and Japan. This way, both countries can work together to understand each other’s culture,” Prof Ahmed Hassan Al-Balushi, Dean of Engineering College at the National University, said.
But Omani students also have nothing but gratuity for Japan in its determination to boost ties between the two nations.
“I am one of those lucky ones to win a scholarship. It is very useful, not only to gain education, but I am learning a new culture that would help me connect my country and Japan in a positive way,” said Thuraya Al- Hashmi, who is studying at the Tokyo Institute of Technology.
Thuraya, who is studying for a Master Degree in Global Engineering for Development, Environment and Society, added that she hopes that Japanese students will also have the opportunity to come to Oman to learn about the local culture and heritage.
Omani students who are keen to go study in Japan, said the exchange program of young people is much needed to connect the two historical cultures.
“I would love to see regular cultural exchanges between Japan and Oman to foster friendship. After all, young people are the future leaders of their countries. Also I would love to go to Japan and do my postgraduate degree,” Safa Saleh, a Bachelor Degree student at Modern College of Business and Science, said.
Oman and Japan have established diplomatic ties since May 7 1972. Hence, Japan was among the first countries to open its Embassy in Muscat.
Dr Talal Al-Balushi, Head of External Relations and Strategic Alliances at the National University, was one of the recipients of the scholarship grant in Japan.
“I was lucky to get the scholarship to study in Japan some years ago. I really hope more young Omanis get the opportunities. They would learn a lot there and bring a lot of experience back home,” Dr Talal said.
The Ambassador of Japan in Oman, Jota Yamamoto said that many Omani students in the past were granted scholarships in Japan and still continue to get higher education opportunities in an effort to build a cultural bridge between the two friendly countries.
“Currently, in addition to the Japanese government scholarship programme, Japan corporations in Oman are also actively involved in assisting Omanis to study in Japan by providing their own scholarships.
“I am happy to say that the relations of the two countries remain cordial and respectful towards peaceful co-existence. This year, the Embassy of Japan in Oman participated in the Global Higher Education Exhibition (GHEDEX) for the first time. The Embassy will be more committed to sharing information for Omanis to study in Japan,” Yamamoto said.
