2025 Ushioda Scholarship Award Winner: Holly Deegan, University of Limerick
The Ireland Japan Association is delighted to announce that the 2025 Ushioda Scholarship has been awarded to Holly Deegan, a second-year Japanese student at the University of Limerick.
Holly will travel to Japan to participate in the Nihongo for Exchange Students (NEST) Program at Toyo University, continuing her studies and deepening her connection with Japanese language and culture.
IJA Council is wishing Holly every success in her studies and adventures in Japan!
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‘Growing up I always had a passion for learning languages. When I had the opportunity to study Japanese in secondary school, I was instantly fascinated by both the language and culture. Having the option to continue my studies in university allowed not only for my language skills to develop, but for my appreciation for Japan to grow also. It will be a privilege to study in Japan and experience a different way of life. Whilst there, I hope to further improve my language skills and explore more of the culture first-hand. ’ – Holly Deegan
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We extend our sincere thanks to Paula Kelly, the IJA Council, and the IJA Education, Language and Ushioda Scholarship Subcommittee for their continued support and dedication in managing the scholarship process.
The Dr. and Mrs. Ushioda Scholarship was established in 2019 to honour their remarkable contributions to the Ireland Japan Association and to Ireland-Japan relations. It continues to support and encourage the growth of Japanese studies in Ireland.
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