DHAKA, Oct 9, 2025 (BSS) - Over 150 alumni of scholarships funded by Japan—including those supported by ADB–Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP), Japan Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the World Bank—convened today in Dhaka for the first joint alumni gathering of Japan-funded scholarship programs for Bangladesh. 

The event, hosted by the ADB–JSP and the ADB Bangladesh Resident Mission, was held in close cooperation with MEXT, JICA, IMF, and the World Bank. This milestone gathering brought together key stakeholders and alumni to celebrate the impact of education and international partnership and to reaffirm their commitment to building a knowledge-based, poverty-free society, said a press release. 

Distinguished guests included Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh Shinichi Saida; JICA Bangladesh Chief Representative Tomohide Ichiguchi; ADB Executive Director for Japan Shigeo Shimizu; and ADB Country Director for Bangladesh Hoe Yun Jeong, among others.

“We take pride in seeing that Japan-funded scholarships, particularly through the ADB-JSP, have empowered scholars to become leaders,” said Jeong. 

“As alumni continue to apply their knowledge and skills, they contribute to advancing socioeconomic development throughout Asia and the Pacific. The Japan-funded scholarship programs remain committed to supporting human capital development and reducing poverty,” he added.

The event celebrated how the alumni are driving positive change in their communities, highlighting the power of education, and recognizing the collective contribution from various Japan-funded scholarship programs to human capital development in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh is among the top recipients of Japan-funded scholarships, reflecting the country’s strong commitment to higher education and international partnership. Each year, the ADB-JSP alone awards around 135 graduate scholarships for studies in economics, business and management, science and technology, and other development-related fields.

ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members—50 from the region.