The Japanese government has awarded MEXT research scholarships for masters/doctorate degrees to 11 Pakistani students for the academic year 2023-25.

“I sincerely congratulate the young Pakistani recipients of Japan’s MEXT Research scholarship which is funded by the Government of Japan,” Ito Takeshi, the charged’ affaires, said at a pre-departure orientation for the scholarship recipients on Friday.

The MEXT—the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology—offers scholarships to foreign students who wish to study at Japanese universities. Students can apply for research, teacher training, undergraduate, Japanese studies, college of technology, and specialized training. The amount of scholarship ranges from Rs250,115 to Rs309,971 per month, said the website.

Tuition fees and travel allowances are provided under the Japanese government scholarship programme for 2023.

Pakistani alumnus of Japanese universities shared their experience of studying and living in Japan with the young scholarship grantees at the orientation.

The charged’ affaires advised the successful candidates to pursue their studies with “utmost dedication during” their stay in Japan. He described the award of scholarships as a “good opportunity” for young scholars not only to acquire education but also to learn Japanese culture and traditions.

“You will embark on an educational and cultural journey to Japan. Be focused, return with strong knowledge and rich experiences, and become bridges of friendship between Japan and Pakistan,’’ he said.