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Pohnpei, July 1, 2024 (Pacific Islands Times) – Improving higher education levels in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) could reduce the number of Micronesian youths migrating, the head of Japan’s largest donor agency said.
The suggestion was made by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Chairman Akihiko Tanaka during a meeting with Federated States of Micronesia President Wesley Simina, who expressed concern about the brain drain problem in the country.
Simina expressed the hope that students from the Federated States of Micronesia who are studying in Japan would be able to return home and contribute to their motherland.
He noted the need for improved infrastructure and strategic development plans to retain and utilize the skills of Micronesia’s young citizens.
Tanaka suggested strengthening higher education in the FSM, similar to JICA’s support for the University of the South Pacific, which would help retain talent and attract local and international students, including from Japan.
Simina welcomed Tanaka’s historic visit to the FSM, which the Micronesian government said “marks an important milestone in the bilateral relations between the FSM and JICA.”
Tanaka stressed the importance of human resources development for strengthening solidarity and emphasized the need to train capable managers in various fields such as communications, fisheries and education.
Tanaka reaffirmed the strong relationship between JICA and the FSM and stressed that JICA is committed to aligning its initiatives with Simina’s vision and the priorities of the FSM Government.
Tanaka asked Simina to share the FSM’s national plan and strategic focus areas to ensure coordinated collaboration.
Simina outlined his vision for the unity of the FSM, stressing that “through unity, we will gain strength and prosperity.”
He acknowledged that Tanaka’s visit was timely and would help strengthen the “friendship” between the Federated States of Micronesia and Japan.
JICA is one of the world’s largest bilateral aid agencies, supporting the socio-economic development of developing countries in different parts of the world. The agency began its cooperation with the Federated States of Micronesia in 1979, when the Federated States of Micronesia was not yet independent, and the agency accepted technical trainees in the fisheries field who went to Japan.
Simina expressed gratitude for JICA’s contribution to the construction of infrastructure such as the terminal and runway in the FSM, noting that these areas continue to require JICA’s support.
He stressed that the FSM central government serves as a conduit for communication with the state governments, recognizing the joint efforts of the four states in the cause of national development.
Tanaka highly values Simina’s philosophy of solidarity and recognizes its importance in guiding JICA’s collaborative activities.
Tanaka also raised the issue of solid waste management, a common challenge faced by island nations. He mentioned JICA’s J-Prism program, which supports the design and management of waste disposal sites in island nations through capacity building and site design measures… PACNEWS
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