Farewell Reception for 2019 MEXT Scholars and New Colombo Plan Participants
2019/3/28
On Wednesday the 20th of March, Minister Omura, Deputy Chief of Mission, hosted a farewell reception at the Ambassador’s Residence for seven students heading to Japan this year as students under the Japanese Government’s MEXT Scholarship Program and the New Colombo Plan program, an Australian Government initiative.
Approximately 30 guests were in attendance including the former Australian Ambassador to Mongolia, former MEXT Scholars, local MEXT Alumni members, Higher Education sector representatives including a professor from the ANU, as well as executives from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Department of Education and Training.
In addition to thanking those who assisted with the selection of this year’s cohort, Minister Omura expressed his hope that the new scholars become a valuable bridge between Australia and Japan, contributing to the strong relationship of the two countries in their respective fields in future as many former program participants have done. With Tokyo set to host the upcoming 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, Minister Omura also encouraged the students to venture to other areas of Japan during their stay to experience local traditions and culture outside of the capital.
During the proceedings, the departing students introduced themselves, also sharing their hopes for their stay in Japan. To conclude the evening Mr. John Langtry, the former Australian Ambassador to Mongolia and a former Japanese Government Scholar, shared his experience with the young participants, encouraging them to find a passion to pursue in Japan. Mr. Langtry said he had no doubt that each of them would form life-long personal connections to the country.
Approximately 30 guests were in attendance including the former Australian Ambassador to Mongolia, former MEXT Scholars, local MEXT Alumni members, Higher Education sector representatives including a professor from the ANU, as well as executives from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Department of Education and Training.
In addition to thanking those who assisted with the selection of this year’s cohort, Minister Omura expressed his hope that the new scholars become a valuable bridge between Australia and Japan, contributing to the strong relationship of the two countries in their respective fields in future as many former program participants have done. With Tokyo set to host the upcoming 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, Minister Omura also encouraged the students to venture to other areas of Japan during their stay to experience local traditions and culture outside of the capital.
During the proceedings, the departing students introduced themselves, also sharing their hopes for their stay in Japan. To conclude the evening Mr. John Langtry, the former Australian Ambassador to Mongolia and a former Japanese Government Scholar, shared his experience with the young participants, encouraging them to find a passion to pursue in Japan. Mr. Langtry said he had no doubt that each of them would form life-long personal connections to the country.
 Minister Omura’s Farewell Address |
 Closing remarks from former Australian Ambassador to Mongolia, Mr John Langtry |
 Departing students’ self-introductions |
 Discussions amongst guests |
 Minister Omura with the departing students |
 Commemorative photo of all attendees |