On July 10, 2024, a significant event took place at the office of His Excellency SOK Chenda Sophea, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia. He welcomed a group of 25 Cambodian scholars who were selected to receive the Japanese Grant Aid for Human Resource Development Scholarship (JDS). These individuals, hailing from 14 different ministries and institutions, have been afforded the opportunity to pursue their PhD and Master’s degrees, marking a crucial step in their academic and professional journeys.
During this gathering, His Excellancy the Deputy Prime Minister took the opportunity to extend his warmest congratulations to the recipients. He placed great emphasis on the importance of their forthcoming educational endeavors in Japan, urging them to dedicate themselves fully to their studies. His main message was clear: absorb as much knowledge and as many skills as possible to aid in furthering the development of Cambodia upon their return.
Moreover, His Excellency the Deputy Prime Minister imparted words of wisdom about the importance of cultural identity and representation. He advised the scholars to remain conscious of Cambodia’s rich history and unique culture, and to serve as ambassadors of their country while abroad. This involves not only sharing insights about Cambodia with peers in Japan but also immersing themselves in the Japanese culture. By doing so, they would foster deeper understanding and friendship between the two nations, ultimately strengthening the diplomatic ties.
To conclude his address, the Deputy Prime Minister inspired the scholars with a local proverb: “In the house, everyone has a different mother, but in the jungle, everyone has the same mother.” This was an encouragement for the awardees to support and rely on each other throughout their academic journey, reflecting the values of unity and collective growth.
The recipients of the scholarship expressed profound gratitude for the guidance and encouragement provided by His Excellency. They committed to pursuing their academic goals with diligence and to return equipped with expertise that will contribute to the socio-economic advancement of Cambodia.
This occasion not only celebrated the academic future of these young leaders but also underscored the ongoing collaborative efforts between Cambodia and Japan in fostering human resource development. These efforts are essential in ensuring that the emerging generation of professionals is ready to take on leadership roles in the country’s development trajectory. Through such international partnerships and educational opportunities, Cambodia continues to cultivate a workforce capable of propelling the nation towards greater prosperity.
Source: MFAIC
