In early August, a group of fellows from Project for Human Resource Development Scholarship (JDS), who recently arrived in Japan to pursue graduate studies, paid a courtesy visit to the Honorary Consul of Solomon Islands in Tokyo.
The visit provided an opportunity for the Fellows to introduce themselves, express their appreciation, and begin building a supportive relationship for their academic and cultural journey in Japan.
The visit commenced with a warm welcome from Mr. Kitano Takahiro, Honorary Consul of Solomon Islands. During the event, the fellows introduced themselves in Japanese—a language they had only begun learning the day before.
Their effort left a strong impression on Mr. Kitano and Mr. Akita Takayuki, Director/Executive Officer, Kitano Construction Corp., who was also present at the occasion.
After a brief conversation with Mr. Kitano, each fellow expressed their impressions about Japan and the aspiration of their study.
Benjamin Kiriau expressed admiration for Japan’s natural beauty and his keen interest in how rural communities have contributed to economic development through strong infrastructure.
“I would like to learn how people contribute to economic development effectively supported by good infrastructure, especially those living in rural areas.
“I am also looking forward to experiencing four seasons in Japan, and if possible, I would like to see snow,” he said.
Upon arriving in Japan, Marlchom Row was struck by the country’s well-organized systems and the respectful demeanor of its people.
He expressed a strong desire to learn from this experience and share his insights when returning home.
Grateful for the opportunity, he also conveyed his enthusiasm for contributing to the national development of the Solomon Islands through the knowledge and perspectives gained during his stay in Japan.
Despite Japan’s high population density, Benjamin Pitakaka found Japan to offer a calm and peaceful environment—an ideal setting for academic research.
He expressed hope that his studies on national security at a Japanese university would contribute meaningfully to strengthening Solomon Islands’ own security framework.
He also shared his interest in learning about Japan’s policing approaches and security strategies, with the aim of identifying practices that could be adapted for Solomon Islands.
Meanwhile, Mr Kitano acknowledged the uniqueness of Japanese culture which makes him recall the fondness of Solomon culture. He understood the two cultures are different but respects both cultures.
He also feels that Solomon Islands tends to be a peaceful country, and he appreciates that Japan also demonstrates a sense of safety—for example, it is common for lost wallets to be returned.
Mr Kitano concluded the meeting by encouraging the JDS fellows to feel free to visit the Consulate office and to maintain close communication with the Consulate in preparation for future events.