Implementation of the FY2025 Foreign Minister’s Commendation and the JICA Alumni Gathering (November 29,2025)
2025/12/1
Participants of the Ceremony
Presentation of Certificates of Commendation
Ambassador Suzuki Giving His Address
On 29 November, the “Multicultural Harmony: JICA Alumni Gathering” hosted by the Samoa JICA Alumni Association (SJAA) was held in Apia. The event was attended by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Hon. Mulipola Anarosa Ale Molio'o, Ms. Yumiko Asakuma, Resident Representative of JICA Samoa Office, as well as government officials and members of the alumni association.
From the Embassy of Japan, H.E. Mr. Ryotaro Suzuki, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Samoa, participated in the ceremony and delivered remarks, followed by the presentation of Certificates of Commendation.
Established in 1998, SJAA is an organization of approximately 175 members who have studied in Japan through JICA training and scholarship programmes. Over the years, the association has been actively engaged in a wide range of activities, including community service, organizing events to promote Japanese culture, and providing pre-departure orientation and homestay support for Samoan participants in training programmes to Japan. These efforts have contributed greatly to deepening mutual understanding and friendly relations between Japan and Samoa, while also enhancing public awareness of Japan’s international cooperation.
The ceremony began with opening remarks by SJAA President Vaganā Steve Faaea, followed by Ambassador Suzuki’s address, in which he expressed his appreciation for the association’s longstanding contribution as a bridge between Japan and Samoa through JICA programmes. Ambassador Suzuki then presented Certificates of Commendation to members who have made outstanding contributions.
President Faaea also highlighted the history and achievements of SJAA, as well as its future directions, fostering a warm sense of unity among the participants.
The Embassy of Japan will continue to work closely with SJAA and the JICA Samoa Office to further promote human resource development and exchange between Japan and Samoa.
From the Embassy of Japan, H.E. Mr. Ryotaro Suzuki, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Samoa, participated in the ceremony and delivered remarks, followed by the presentation of Certificates of Commendation.
Established in 1998, SJAA is an organization of approximately 175 members who have studied in Japan through JICA training and scholarship programmes. Over the years, the association has been actively engaged in a wide range of activities, including community service, organizing events to promote Japanese culture, and providing pre-departure orientation and homestay support for Samoan participants in training programmes to Japan. These efforts have contributed greatly to deepening mutual understanding and friendly relations between Japan and Samoa, while also enhancing public awareness of Japan’s international cooperation.
The ceremony began with opening remarks by SJAA President Vaganā Steve Faaea, followed by Ambassador Suzuki’s address, in which he expressed his appreciation for the association’s longstanding contribution as a bridge between Japan and Samoa through JICA programmes. Ambassador Suzuki then presented Certificates of Commendation to members who have made outstanding contributions.
President Faaea also highlighted the history and achievements of SJAA, as well as its future directions, fostering a warm sense of unity among the participants.
The Embassy of Japan will continue to work closely with SJAA and the JICA Samoa Office to further promote human resource development and exchange between Japan and Samoa.