AFS Scholars celebrated at the Japanese Ambassador’s residence.
AFS Scholars Celebrate at Japanese Ambassador’s Residence in Sri Lanka
In a wonderful occasion that underscored the deepening bonds between Sri Lanka and Japan, AFS scholars, both returning and those preparing to embark on their journey, were honored at the Japanese Ambassador’s residence. The event, hosted by His Excellency MIZUKOSHI Hideaki, Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, and his wife Mrs. Mizukoshi Mariko, a distinguished AFSer to the USA in 1979/1980, was a celebration of the 2023/2024 AFS Scholars from the Asia Kakehashi Project, MEXT Programs, and a representative Dosanko/Jintec Scholar.
The evening was filled with gratitude and reflections as the returnees shared their transformative experiences in Japan, expressing heartfelt thanks to the Embassy of Japan and the Japanese government for providing them with these once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. The scholarships, they emphasized, have not only enriched their lives but have also strengthened the cultural and educational ties between the two nations.
Also present at the event were this year’s long-term and short-term scholars, who could hardly contain their excitement as they prepare to embark on their own adventures in Japan. Their enthusiasm was palpable as they looked forward to the experiences that await them, inspired by the stories shared by the returnees.
The gathering was not just a celebration of individual achievements but a testament to the enduring relationship between Sri Lanka and Japan. The evening was marked by camaraderie, joy, and a shared commitment to fostering understanding and friendship between the two countries.
This special event, hosted by Ambassador MIZUKOSHI and Mrs. Mizukoshi Mariko, was a powerful reminder of the bridges of culture and knowledge that AFS has helped to build, ensuring a brighter future for the scholars and a stronger partnership between Sri Lanka and Japan.
Photography courtesy of the Embassy of Japan to Sri Lanka
