Tag Archive for: Japan

Announcement of the passing of former Ambassador, Junji Shimada

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It is with deep sadness that the Ireland Japan Association Council shares the announcement from the Embassy of Japan in Ireland regarding the passing of former Ambassador Mr. Junji Shimada.

Ambassador Shimada was a dedicated diplomat and an exemplary representative of Japan. He will be greatly missed by his family, the staff who had the privilege of working alongside him, and the many people in Ireland whom he met during his service.

On behalf of the IJA Council, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Ambassador Shimada’s family, his colleagues, and all who mourn his loss. His contribution to strengthening the relationship between Ireland and Japan will be long remembered.

“Ambassador Shimada will be remembered with great respect and admiration for his dedication to strengthening the relationship between Japan and Ireland. His commitment, warmth, and gracious engagement with our Association and the wider community left a lasting and meaningful impact. We are profoundly grateful for his contributions and for the friendship he extended during his time in Ireland.” – Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson

The IJA Council joins the Embassy of Japan and the wider community in honouring Ambassador Shimada’s legacy and mourning his loss. Our thoughts are with all who held him dear.

Book of Condolence

A book of condolence for former Ambassador Shimada will be available at the Embassy of Japan at the following times:

Dates:
Wednesday, 19 November | 10 am – 12 pm and 2 pm – 4 pm
Thursday, 20 November | 10 am – 12 pm and 2 pm – 4 pm

Location:
Embassy of Japan
3rd Floor, Merrion Centre
Nutley Lane, Dublin 4

Messages of Condolence by Email

The Embassy also welcomes condolences sent via email until 20 November.

Email: protocol@ir.mofa.go.jp

Please include:
1. Subject line: “Condolences: Former Ambassador Shimada”
2. Name
3. Title and organisation (if applicable)
4. Message

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The IJA Chairperson’s Lunch 2025: Celebrating Friendship and Recognition

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On Wednesday, 5th November, the Ireland Japan Association was delighted to host the annual IJA Chairperson’s Lunch at the iconic Stephen’s Green Club, Dublin.

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This year’s event was particularly special as we celebrated the Commendation by the Japanese Foreign Minister, an honour awarded to the Ireland Japan Association earlier this year in recognition of its longstanding contribution to fostering strong economic, cultural, and educational ties between Ireland and Japan.

The lunch brought together members, partners, and friends of the IJA for an afternoon of connection and celebration.

We were honoured to welcome our Guest Speaker, Ivana Bacik TD, Leader of the Labour Party, who shared thoughtful remarks on leadership, collaboration, and Ireland’s growing ties with Japan. We were also privileged to hear from Koji Hirohata, Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of Japan, who addressed guests and congratulated the IJA on receiving the prestigious commendation.

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Ivana Bacik TD, Leader of the Labour Party

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Koji Hirohata, Chargé d’Affaires, Embassy of Japan

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The event was attended by IJA Council members, corporate and individual members, and a number of the Association’s former Chairs and Vice Chairs, who have each played an important role in shaping the organisation’s journey over the years.

It was a memorable afternoon celebrating the friendship between Ireland and Japan, the achievements of the IJA community, and the shared commitment to building an even stronger partnership for the future.

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IJA Chairpersons – from L-R: Catherine Grennell-Whyte, Darina Slattery, Richard Ryan, Paula Kelly, Donagh Morris and Raymond Hegarty

From L-R: Koji Hirohata, Chargé d’Affaires, Embassy of Japan, Teresa Weafer, Google Ireland, Ivana Bacik TD, Leader of Labour Party, Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson, Raymond Hegarty, IJA Council

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Ireland Hosts the 11th International Symposium on Dialogue for Global Innovation

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The Ireland Japan Association was proud to sponsor and co-organise the 11th International Symposium on Dialogue for Global Innovation (DFGI-11), which took place in Dublin on 16 – 17 September 2025 at Trinity College Dublin.

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This year’s theme, Technologies for Human Flourishing: Advancing AI & Quantum Computing with Responsibility,’ could not have been more timely. Over the course of two days, inspiring speakers and leaders from Europe and Japan came together to share insights on global technology and innovation, explore future opportunities, and discuss the responsibilities that come with advancing cutting-edge fields such as AI and quantum computing.

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We were especially honoured that IJA Chairperson, Catherine Grennell-Whyte, addressed the symposium participants on the opening day. In her remarks, Catherine introduced the work of the IJA and emphasised its mission as a bridge between Ireland and Japan, fostering collaboration in business, culture, and education. “It is a privilege for the IJA to contribute to this important dialogue,” she said, “and to see Ireland host such an influential gathering of minds, dedicated to innovation with responsibility.”

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Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson

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Traditionally held in London, DFGI has long been a platform for leading voices from Europe and Japan to exchange expertise and strengthen cooperation across business, academia, and technology. Hosting the symposium in Ireland for the first time highlighted Ireland’s growing role in this global dialogue and provided a unique opportunity to build new connections and partnerships.

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The IJA would like to thank the organisers, partners, and supporters of this prestigious event for making it such a success. Events like DFGI-11 play an important role in today’s rapidly evolving world, reminding us of the need to combine innovation with responsibility, and dialogue with collaboration.

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Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson during her speech at the DFGI-11 in Dublin, Ireland

 

Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson during her speech at the DFGI-11 in Dublin, Ireland

 

From L-R: Raymond Hegarty, IJA Council, Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson and David Doran, IDA Ireland

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An Evening of Friendship and Culture: IJA Council Visits Ambassador Shimada’s Residence

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The Ireland Japan Association would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to H.E. Mr. Junji Shimada, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland and his wife, Mrs. Kaoru Shimada, for their kind and generous invitation to host a dinner at their residence in Dublin on 17th June.

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Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson, was joined by Council and Patron Member Peter Vambeck (Fitzwilliam Capital) and Council Member Maria Mardiki for a memorable evening filled with warm hospitality, engaging conversation, and cultural exchange.

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The evening offered a special opportunity to experience Japanese traditions and enjoy a beautifully prepared meal in the company of our hosts. Our Council members were deeply honoured by the warm welcome and truly appreciated the chance to strengthen the bond between the IJA and the Embassy of Japan.

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We are sincerely grateful for this gesture of friendship and look forward to continuing to nurture and grow our relationship with Ambassador Shimada, Mrs. Shimada, and the Embassy in the future.

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2025 Ushioda Scholarship Award Winner: Holly Deegan, University of Limerick

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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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IJA Council members and corporate representatives visit Japan House in Dublin

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On 10th and 12th of July, H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland, welcomed the IJA Council members and representatives of the IJA Corporate members to Japan House in Dublin to discuss the IJA work and activities in Ireland as well as look at cooperation options in the future.

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L-R: Neil Cowhey (Dillon Eustace/IJA Council), Raymond Hegarty (IJA Council), Azumi Uchitani (IJA Council), Catherine Grennell-Whyte (IJA Chairperson), Norio Maruyama (Ambassador of Japan to Ireland), Teresa Weafer (Google Ireland) and Hiro Ino (IJA Council).

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Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson, Tsugumi Yamamoto, IJA Vice Chairperson, IJA Council members – Hiro Ino, Neil Cowhey (Dillon Eustace), Raymond Hegarty, Azumi Uchitani, Eddie Hughes, Hirofumi Noda (ElectroRoute), and the IJA corporate representatives – Darina Slattery (Oomi Travel), Mary Honohan (PwC Ireland), Jun Watanabe (ALPS Electric) and Teresa Weafer (Google) attended.

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The IJA Council thanks the Ambassador Maruyama and his team for the warm welcome and hospitality during the visit.

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L-R: Jun Watanabe (ALPS Electric), Hirofumi Noda (ElectroRoute/IJA Council), Darina Slattery (Oomi Travel), Norio Maruyama (Ambassador of Japan to Ireland), Tsugumi Yamamoto (IJA Vice Chairperson), Mary Honohan (PwC Ireland) and Eddie Hughes (IJA Council).

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Photos: Embassy of Japan

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Dr. and Mrs. Ushioda Scholarship 2024 Award Ceremony | PHOTO GALLERY

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The Ushioda Scholarship Award Ceremony was held on Friday, June 28th and was hosted by the IJA Corporate Member Oomi Travel in Dublin. 2024 award winner Eloise Maguire was warmly welcomed and congratulated by Catherine Grennell-Whyte, the Chairperson of IJA, Ms. Paula Kelly, the Ushioda Scholarship coordinator, and members of the Ushioda family, Dr. Ema Ushioda and Kazi Ushioda.

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We were honored to have H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan, in attendance at the award ceremony. The Ambassador shared his well wishes and words of encouragement with Eloise as she prepares for her upcoming studies in Japan.

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From L-R: Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson, Kazi Ushioda, Dr. Ema Ushioda, Eloise Maguire, DCU and H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland

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.Eloise Maguire, who is studying Applied Languages and Translation Studies at DCU, has been selected as the recipient of the prestigious Ushioda Scholarship in 2024. Eloise will travel to Japan where she will be studying at Rikkyo University in Tokyo.

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‘It is a massive honour to receive this scholarship and I plan to make the most of it during my study abroad! While immersing myself in the Japanese language and improving my language skills, I hope to experience the culture and way of life in Japan.’ – Eloise Maguire

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Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson and Eloise Maguire, DCU

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We express our gratitude to Laura O’Grady from Oomi Travel for her hospitality, as well as to Graham Ryan and Miyu Iskikawa from Yamamori for the delightful Japanese refreshments. A special thank you to everyone who joined us at the event to celebrate Eloise’s remarkable achievement.

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Dr. and Mrs. Ushioda Scholarship was established in 2019 in honour of Dr. and Mrs. Ushioda’s major contribution to the development of the Ireland Japan Association and Ireland-Japan relations, and to underpin the association’s strong commitment to supporting Japanese studies in Ireland.

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Speech by Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson

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Speech by H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland

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Speech by Paula Kelly, Ushioda Scholarship Coordinator

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Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson, H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan to Ireland and Eloise Maguire, DCU

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IJA Annual Dinner 2024: Celebrating the Irish-Japanese Community

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Ireland Japan Association’s Annual Dinner 2024, a significant event for the Irish-Japanese community, was held on May 17th at the Conrad Dublin hotel. Esteemed members of the Ireland Japan Association and distinguished guests, including key figures from government, business, academia, and the arts, gathered to celebrate the strong ties between Ireland and Japan.
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The evening began with a Sake & Prosecco reception, creating an atmosphere of elegance and camaraderie. Master of Ceremonies Raymond Hegarty warmly welcomed attendees. Guests then enjoyed a sumptuous three-course meal in the beautiful Ballroom, followed by a Prize Giving ceremony.
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IJA Council Members with special guests: H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan in Ireland, H.E. Ms. Leena Gardemeister, Ambassador of Finland to Ireland, and Mr. Jack Chambers, State Minister for the Department of Transport and the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications.

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H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan in Ireland and IJA Patron, honoured the event with his presence and delivered an inspiring address.
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Special guest Mr. Jack Chambers, State Minister for the Department of Transport and the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, gave a memorable speech, sharing insights from his recent visit to Japan.

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H.E. Mr. Norio Maruyama, Ambassador of Japan in Ireland.

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Mr. Jack Chambers, State Minister for the Department of Transport and the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications.

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IJA Chairperson Catherine Grennell-Whyte highlighted the association’s mission and recent achievements. She noted the rapid growth and expansion of the association, marked by a variety of events and activities throughout the year and an increasing number of individual and corporate members.
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“We are committed to fostering education, cultural exchange, and business opportunities between Ireland and Japan,” said Catherine Grennell-Whyte. “Our goal is to build a vibrant community offering real benefits and opportunities through close collaborations, cultural appreciation, innovative business discussions, and invaluable networking.”
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Catherine Grennell-Whyte, IJA Chairperson

 
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The IJA Annual Dinner 2024 was a memorable night, celebrating the enduring bond between Ireland and Japan.
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IJA Annual Dinner 2024 Prosecco & Sake Reception at The Conrad, Dublin.

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The IJA Council expresses its gratitude to the Dublin School for Japanese Children for crafting and presenting exquisite Japanese origami decorations to our dinner guests. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the event team at Conrad Dublin for their exceptional hospitality and service during our event. We also want to extend our thanks to Raymond Hegarty, Master of Ceremonies, and our dedicated event team for their invaluable time, support, and contributions in making this year’s event a resounding success.

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The IJA Council extends gratitude to the prize sponsors for their ongoing support and generous contributions: Dillon Eustace, Finnair, Japan Rugby and Football Union, KWE Ireland, Oomi Travel, Mitsubishi Electric, NTT Data, PwC Ireland, and SuMi TRUST.
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Photo Gallery | IJA Annual Dinner 2024

Photos: Stephen Cullen, K9 Studio

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(If you were a guest at the IJA Annual Dinner 2024 and would like to receive an access to full photo gallery from the night, please email your request to: info@ija.ie)

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2024 Ushioda Scholarship Award Winner: Eloise Maguire, DCU

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The Ireland Japan Association is delighted to announce that in 2024 the Ushioda Scholarship is awarded to Eloise Maguire, studying Applied Languages and Translation Studies at DCU. Eloise will be travelling to Japan for an exchange year at Rikkyo University, Tokyo.

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‘It is a massive honour to receive this scholarship and I plan to make the most of it during my study abroad! While immersing myself in the Japanese language and improving my language skills, I hope to experience the culture and way of life in Japan.’ – Eloise Maguire

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We would like to thank Paula Kelly, IJA Individual Member and the IJA Education, Language and Ushioda Scholarship Subcommittee for support and assistance with the scholarship management and administration process this year.

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Dr. and Mrs. Ushioda Scholarship was established in 2019 in honour of Dr. and Mrs. Ushioda’s major contribution to the development of the Ireland Japan Association and Ireland-Japan relations, and to underpin the association’s strong commitment to supporting Japanese studies in Ireland.

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Applications are now open for 2025 MEXT Scholarships

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The Embassy of Japan in Ireland is pleased to inform you that applications from Irish nationals are currently accepted for the 2025 Japanese Government Monbukagakusho (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology/MEXT) Research Student Scholarships. The application period for the 2025 MEXT Undergraduate Student Scholarships will open shortly.

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MEXT Research Student Scholarships
MEXT Research Student Scholarships are offered to Irish university graduates and graduate students who wish to study in graduate courses at Japanese universities as Research Students. Applicants must have Irish citizenship, be born on or after 2 April 1990, and hold at least a Bachelor’s degree. Details of the application procedure and schedule are now available on the Embassy website here, and general information about the MEXT Scholarships can be found on the Study in Japan website here.
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MEXT Undergraduate Student Scholarships
MEXT Undergraduate Student Scholarships are offered to Irish students who wish to pursue their undergraduate education in the fields of Social Sciences & Humanities or Natural Sciences at Japanese universities. Applicants must have Irish citizenship and be born on or after 2 April 2000. Details of the application procedure and schedule will be available on the Embassy website here shortly, and general information about the MEXT Scholarships can be found on the Study in Japan website here.
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Application documents can be downloaded from the Study in Japan website:
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Deadline
Applications for both scholarships should be submitted by e-mail by Tuesday, 04 June 2024 to the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science at Scholarships@dfheris.gov.ie and not to the Embassy of Japan.
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Applications for MEXT Scholarships through the Embassy Recommendation system must be submitted to the Embassy of Japan in the country of the applicant’s nationality. A list of websites of Japanese Embassies, Consulates and Permanent Missions is available at https://www.mofa.go.jp/about/emb_cons/mofaserv.html.
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It would be greatly appreciated if you could pass this information on to any colleagues or students you know who may be eligible and interested in these scholarship opportunities.
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If you or any potential applicants require any further information or have any questions regarding the scholarships, please don’t hesitate to contact the Embassy’s Information & Culture Section at culture@ir.mofa.go.jp.
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