H.E. Ambassador Masafumi Kuroki and Mr. Kazuo Chujo, Counselor for the Embassy of Japan, visited the University of Cambodia on March 4, 2010, to strengthen cooperation between the Japanese Embassy and the University of Cambodia (UC). H.E. Dr. Kao, President of UC and Secretary of State for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, noted that this was the first Japanese Ambassador to visit UC. Dr. Kao also took the opportunity to inform Ambassador Kuroki of Dr. Haruhisa Handa’s significant contributions to UC and to human resource development in Cambodia. Dr. Handa currently serves as Chancellor of UC; Advisor to the Prime Minister of Cambodia; President and Founder of International Foundation for Arts and Culture; and Chairman for Worldwide Support for Development.
Impressed by the developments of UC in its short history, Ambassador Kuroki asked about future plans for growth and development. After informing Ambassador Kuroki that UC is one of just two universities in Cambodia that uses English as the language of instruction for all students, Dr. Kao shared his plans for expansion with the future opening of three UC schools: the School of Government and International Affairs, the College for Media and Communication, and College of Performing Arts.
During his visit, the Ambassador encouraged UC students to apply for scholarships to study in Japan and abroad, a learning opportunity UC students are craving and one that Dr. Kao pushes.
“Students should consider further studies in Japan,” Dr. Kao encouraged. “They can gain a better knowledge of life and education outside of Cambodia so that, when they return, they can put that knowledge into practice and help to develop Cambodia.”
Dr. Kao and Ambassador Kuroki will continue to explore possibilities for cooperation between the Japanese Embassy and UC.
