Three local recipients are to take up scholarship studies in Japan under the JICA funded Development Studies Programme.
Jimmy Leausa and Derek Leota have been granted admission to pursue studies at the Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University.
Mee Hwa Malofou Maureen Atimalala, will undertake her studies at the St. Luke’s International University.
Ms. Yumiko Asakuma, JICA Resident Representative conveyed her best wishes to the recipients in their studies in Japan.
Ms. Gatoloaifaana Tilianamua Afamasaga, the Commissioner of the Public Service Commission (PSC), who spoke on behalf of the Government of Samoa, congratulated the scholars and wished them well in their studies.
Mr. Jimmy Leausa, a teacher by profession, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to further his education, as he had to pause his studies at NUS.
This would be his first time being away from his family and friends to pursue studies abroad. His focus within the Sustainability Tourism Program at APU is to delve deeper into effective waste management, particularly in relation to plastics.
Derek Leota, will be specializing in Sustainability and Tourism, with a specific focus on data science and information systems.
He believes that data-driven decision-making can greatly contribute to sustainable development.
As an IT professional, Leota aims to address the pressing need for data-driven decision-making in Samoa.
Ms. Mee Hwa, who is of Filipino and Samoan heritage, holds a strong passion for nutrition due to her background in the field.
Through her participation in the SDGs program, she aims to enhance her knowledge of nutrition and epidemiology, equipping herself to better serve the healthcare sector in Samoa.
Currently working as a National Codex Specialist Consultant at the FAO, Ms. Mee Hwa is committed to making a positive impact.