By Edward Dankwah
Accra, June 17, GNA – Mr. Hiroshi Yoshimoto, the Japanese Ambassador to Ghana, has called on Ghanaian students to explore the vast educational and professional opportunities available in Japan as part of their preparations for a global future.
Speaking at a TEDx programme hosted by the University of Cape Coast (UCC) on its opening day, the ambassador said international education had become increasingly important in a rapidly changing and interconnected world.
A statement issued in Accra said, his presentation centred on studying in Japan and covered scholarships, university programmes, exchange opportunities, student life and visa procedures.
Mr Yoshimoto said Japan offered a unique combination of academic excellence, technological advancement and cultural richness that made it an attractive destination for students seeking international exposure.
He encouraged students to broaden their ambitions beyond national borders and consider opportunities that would equip them with global skills and perspectives.
The Ambassador said studying abroad enabled young people to develop adaptability, cross-cultural communication skills and a deeper understanding of international issues.
He noted that Japan’s universities were welcoming more international students through expanded English-language programmes and scholarship opportunities.
He said students who pursued higher education in Japan would gain access to world-class research facilities, innovation-driven learning environments and diverse cultural experiences.
Mr Yoshimoto urged participants to take advantage of available information and resources when considering study opportunities abroad.
He also encouraged them to begin planning early by identifying suitable programmes, preparing strong applications and researching scholarship options.
Mr. Naoki Mitori, the ChargĂ© d’Affaires at the Embassy, urged participants to apply the principles of mottainai not only to physical resources but also to their personal lives.
He stressed that failing to make use of one’s talents, abilities and opportunities could equally be considered a form of waste.
“Young people should recognise and maximise their potential rather than allow opportunities to pass them by,” he added.
He linked this message to the event’s theme of kintsugi, stating that setbacks and imperfections should not discourage individuals from pursuing their goals, instead, challenges should be seen as experiences that shaped character and created new possibilities.
Mr. Mitori encouraged students to remember both kintsugi and mottainai as guiding principles for personal growth and responsible living.
The presentations provided detailed information on admissions procedures, funding opportunities and support systems available to international students.
Participants engaged in various aspects of studying in Japan, including accommodation, language requirements and career prospects after graduation.
The programme highlighted the growing interest in international education and reinforced the importance of global engagement in preparing young people for future leadership roles.
GNA
Edited by audrey Dekalu