Japan offers graduate scholarships to Filipinos engaged in development planning

MANILA, Philippines – The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) announced calls for applicants to one of the longest-running international scholarship programs offered by the Japanese government to Filipino professionals who want to study in Japan. 

The Project for Human Resource Development Scholarship by Japanese Grant Aid or JDS is open for Filipinos engaged in formulating and implementing socio-economic development plans and become future leaders in their respective fields. 

“The JDS is strongly committed to helping young Filipinos and scholars thrive in their professions and contribute to nation building,” said JICA Chief Representative Susumu Ito. “By helping build the capacity of Filipino professionals, JICA aims to sustain the economic growth trajectory of the Philippines in the long-term.”

Historically, Japan’s own economic resurgence depended on education and human resource development among other factors. Through capacity building programs in the Philippines such as JDS, Filipino scholars learn Japan’s accumulated knowledge and expertise in various fields and apply this knowledge upon their return to the Philippines. 

“The Japanese scholarship is not just about career advancement. It’s also about developing the values we need to contribute to Philippine development,” said Francis delos Reyes, head of the Project Management Office of the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP). Delos Reyes obtained master’s in economics from the International University of Japan. 

The JDS is open to Filipinos, between 22 and 39 years old as of April 1, 2018, and is interested to pursue master’s degree in Japan to support Philippine development may apply until November 14, 2017. 

To date, 319 Filipinos have received JDS scholarships. 

Japan, through JICA, has actively supported capacity building of Filipinos in various fields including agriculture, human resources, policy development, health, public works, manufacturing, tourism, social welfare, and energy among others. 

Aside from JDS, JICA also offers training for young leaders, academic researchers, as well as participants from other developing countries to learn the development experiences of partner countries like the Philippines. 

To apply for JDS, please visit this link or contact JICE JDS Project Office in the Philippines, Unit 2-F1, Island Plaza Salcedo, 105 L.P. Leviste Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City at telephone number: 02-753-3261 or email jds.philippines@jice.org. – Rappler.com