The award ceremony for this year's Soka University Makiguchi Memorial Education Foundation’s International Student Scholarship was held online on Wednesday, May 11th.

This scholarship was established with the support of the Makiguchi Memorial Education Foundation Association and supports international students who have financial difficulties studying in bekka (non-degree program), undergraduate, and graduate schools.

Following the presentation of the certificates by Chairperson of the Board of Trustees Yasunori Tashiro, on behalf of the international students, Mr. Andrew Tay Yu Yan (Faculty of Science and Engineering, 4th year) from Malaysia expressed his appreciation and determination to succeed.

Andrew said, “I am working hard in my studies and my research into “Building a society where people and the environment can coexist.” While the population is increasing, resource depletion and mass waste emissions are problems that cannot be avoided in any country. Through my studies in the laboratory, I would like to make effective use of overgrown aquatic plants by using them as soil conditioners, study the effect on plant growth, and ultimately contribute to improved crop yields. Thanks to the scholarship, my financial worries have been reduced so that I can concentrate on my research activities." 

Mikiya Takanashi, President of the Makiguchi Memorial Education Foundation, first introduced the Makiguchi Memorial Education Foundation, which was established by Dr. Daisaku Ikeda in honor of Professor Tsunesaburo Makiguchi, the father of Soka Education, to foster capable individuals who will contribute to the happiness of people and world peace. Then said, "Each of you is an important individual who will contribute to the happiness of mankind and the peace of the world through your studies and research at Soka University. Please take care of your health, study hard, and strive to achieve your goals." 

In closing, President Masashi Suzuki said, "In today's world, where human dignity is being ignored and divisions are progressing, I hope that you will become global citizens who will unite the world. I hope that you will deeply understand the meaning of the scholarship provided by the support of many people and that you will study hard together with your classmates to  cultivate the ability to contribute to the building of a peaceful society."