By Charles Mkoka
Japan
International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has sent-off 16 young Tanzanians
selected for the Long-Term Training Programs (LTTP) in Japanese Universities.
Speaking during
a sed-off ceremony on Friday (August 30) chief representative of JICA Mr. ARA
Hitoshi said the 16 Tanzanians will pursue master’s degrees in fields such as
Agriculture, Finance, Water, Energy, and Industry.
“We expect
them to return and contribute to Tanzania’s social and economic development. Their
studies will also help strengthen relations between Japan and Tanzania,” he
said.
So far, over
100 Tanzanians have benefited, from the particular training programs.
During the
event, returnees also shared their experiences from Japan.
“We gained
valuable skills that we can use to develop Tanzania,” Mr. Beno Kiwale said.
Mohsin
Saifuddin also studied Business Administration with a focus on Accounting and
Finance under the ABE Initiative.
“My
experience in Japan showed me the precision and dedication of Japanese work
ethics,” Saifuddin said.
He now
leads New Business Development for YAMAHA Genuine Spare Parts in East Africa
and has plans to build a company in Tanzania focusing on Agriculture and
E-commerce.
“I want to
use my knowledge to make a difference back home,” he added.
The event
also featured a networking session with Japanese companies.
“We see
great potential in working with Tanzanian talents,” said a representative from Saint
Parts Company Ltd.
Saint
Parts Company Ltd, a Japanese company expanded in Tanzania and is currently
seeking collaboration with Tanzanians familiar with Japanese business
practices.
“We are
looking for talents who understand Japanese culture and communication,” said
the company’s Sales Manager. This offers a valuable opportunity for returning
scholars to bridge the gap between the two countries.
Rita Sara
Lema, a finance professional from the Ministry of Finance, will study Accounts
and Finance at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University.
“I want to
see how Japan integrates technology into its financial systems,” Rita said.
She looks
forward to learning how these innovations could improve financial processes in
Tanzania.
“I’m also
excited to explore Japan’s famous sites like Mount Fuji,” she added.
Justin
Marwa Mnyasa will study Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) at Toyo University.
“I am
excited to learn from Japan’s successful PPP projects,” he said.
Mnyasa is
keen on understanding the Kaizen philosophy, which focuses on continuous
improvement.
“This
approach could significantly improve efficiency in Tanzania’s industries,” he
explained.
The JICA scholarships are more than just an educational opportunity; they are a bridge between Japan and Tanzania.