The College of Communication, Art, and Design (CCAD), in collaboration with the UP Cebu Office of International Linkages (OIL), successfully conducted the Information Session on Academic Exchange Opportunities in Japan and the MEXT (Japanese Government) Scholarship via Zoom, with the participation of 105 students and faculty members from the UP Cebu community.
The session featured two distinguished speakers who provided students with clear, credible, and practical guidance on pursuing studies in Japan.
Mr. Renato Vigno, Representative from the Consulate-General of Japan in Cebu, delivered a comprehensive discussion on the MEXT Scholarship, outlining its various scholarship categories, eligibility requirements, and application timelines. He also emphasized the importance of consulting official government channels, accredited agencies, and verified websites, offering students valuable insights and reminders on how to avoid misinformation and better prepare for the application process.
Complementing this, Ms. Eri Sakaguchi, Study of Japan Coordinator of Okayama University, presented an overview of Study in Japan ASEAN, a regional platform that connects Southeast Asian students to reliable information on Japanese higher education institutions, exchange programs, and study pathways. Her presentation highlighted key online resources, partner institutions, and digital tools that students can use to explore programs, track application schedules, and understand academic life in Japan. She also shared practical tips and strategies to help students navigate opportunities more confidently and efficiently.
Despite the shift to a virtual format, the session remained highly engaging, fostering meaningful discussion and equipping participants with trusted references, concrete resources, and actionable guidance for pursuing academic exchange and scholarship opportunities in Japan.
Moving forward, the college will continue its collaboration through a planned campus visit, which will include a guided tour of the University of the Philippines Cebu and a short coordination meeting with our partners. This meeting will serve as an opportunity to further discuss ongoing partnerships, potential academic exchange initiatives, and future collaborative activities, reinforcing our shared commitment to strengthening international linkages and expanding opportunities for our students and faculty.
We extend our sincere appreciation to Ms. Eri Sakaguchi and Mr. Renato Vigno, as well as our partners and participants, for contributing to this initiative that strengthens international linkages and supports the global academic aspirations of the UP Cebu community.