Two Samoans were selected for the Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship, a program that supports outstanding international students pursuing higher education in Japan.

The Embassy of Japan in Apia held a send-off ceremony on Monday.

Jonathan Taumata Chang will begin a Doctoral Course in Environmental Systems Science at the Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, in April 2026. His academic background includes undergraduate studies in China and a master’s degree in the United States. He also worked for three years at the Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa (SROS), contributing to greenhouse gas reduction and water quality monitoring.

His doctoral research theme, “Environmental Monitoring and Policy for Climate Resilience,” will analyse Japan’s environmental monitoring systems and policy frameworks to explore how they can be applied in Pacific Island Countries. He hopes that his work will support stronger evidence-based policymaking and climate adaptation strategies in the region, and eventually help strengthen Samoa’s environmental governance and resilience efforts.

Geraldine Karita Aumua will pursue a Master’s degree in International Social Sciences at Yokohama National University beginning in October 2026. She recently completed her Bachelor of Laws (LLB) at the University of the South Pacific, Samoa Campus, and has developed a growing interest in international climate law and global governance.

Her research will examine the effectiveness of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Japan and how it shapes youth participation in advancing climate justice. Her work highlights the importance of youth engagement, human-rights-based approaches and capacity-building for Pacific Island Countries facing climate-related social and economic challenges. She aims to specialise in international climate law and contribute to legal reforms and climate justice advocacy.

The Embassy of Japan praised both awardees for their academic excellence and commitment to public service, noting that their fields address critical issues such as climate change, environmental sustainability and institutional development. The Embassy expressed confidence that they will serve as strong representatives of Samoa while deepening Japan–Samoa relations.

Japan’s MEXT Scholarship program remains a key pathway for human resource development in Samoa, with annual opportunities including Specified Training College Students, Undergraduate, and Research Student scholarships. Interested applicants may contact the Embassy of Japan for details.