JDS Maldives

08/04/2026

【JDS Program in Japan】
“JDS Government Leaders Networking Event” with officials from Japan and countries across the world

On February 25, current JDS Fellows in Japan participated in the Networking Event, designed to strengthen connections among government officers and deepen bilateral relationships between Japan and participating countries.
The event welcomed nearly 300 attendees, including JDS Fellows from Maldives who will complete the program this summer, officials from Japanese ministries, and JICA staff.

＜Group Discussions: Sharing Knowledge and Learning from Each Other＞
In the first half of the event, participants were divided into sector-based groups. One JDS Fellow from each group presented insights and experiences gained during their studies in Japan.
Small-group discussions followed under the theme “Learning Across Borders: Government Officials Sharing Challenges and Ideas.”
Participants exchanged honest thoughts about topics such as work–life balance, career paths, current challenges, and the kind of professional life they aspire to build. It was inspiring to see how openly they shared their experiences and how actively they learned from one another.

＜Coffee Reception: Connecting Beyond Borders＞
During the tea gathering in the second half, participants enjoyed free and lively conversations that crossed nationalities and institutional boundaries. Exchanging ideas, sharing areas of interest, and exchanging business cards in the session have formed the network that may continue long after their return to home countries.
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As JDS Fellows, they do more than study in Japan—they become a part of a global network of future government leaders. We look forward to seeing how these connections will further strengthen collaboration among countries in the years ahead.

07/04/2026

JDS is a journey that inspires and empowers! Here’s one Scholar’s voice.

“Being a JDS scholar has been a truly meaningful experience for me, and one I am very grateful for.

From seminars and field programs organized by JICA to experiencing different parts of Japan and its rich culture and history, this journey has helped me grow both academically and personally, while broadening my perspective through learning alongside scholars from different countries.

If you are thinking about applying for JDS, I encourage you to take this rewarding opportunity.”

- Ms. Aminath Nadha – 4th batch JDS Scholar, Ritsumeikan University -

29/03/2026

29/03/2026

🎓A glimpse into the life of a JDS Fellow in Japan

“Studying for my master’s abroad has been a dream come true for me, and being able to do that in Japan makes it even more special. I continue to be amazed by the country’s rich heritage and culture in every place I visit, and the discipline of the Japanese people stands as an example for the rest of the world.
These past few months have been a time of immense growth, both academically and personally. This journey continues to expand my understanding and enrich my outlook, and I hope it inspires others to pursue the JDS Scholarship and seize the opportunities it offers.”
– Ms. Suraa Rasheed – 5th batch JDS Fellow –

19/03/2026

Eid Mubarak!

16/03/2026

We are proud to share the reflections of Ms. Udhuma Abdulla Inayath, a 5th Batch JDS Fellow, who participated in the 33rd One World Festival in Osaka on February 7–8, 2026, representing the Maldives.

The event welcomed over 22,000 visitors and 90 organizations, highlighting international cooperation and cultural exchange.

“Participating in the One World Festival was a very meaningful experience for me. It was inspiring to see so many people from different backgrounds coming together to promote international understanding and cultural exchange. I had the opportunity to interact with many local visitors, from children to young adults and elderly people and communicate with them in Japanese. I especially enjoyed sharing about the Maldives, including our culture and traditions, and teaching a few simple phrases in Dhivehi language to the visitors. Seeing people’s curiosity and interest in learning about the Maldives made the experience very memorable for me.

I am grateful to have been part of such a vibrant event and to contribute, even in a small way, to promoting global connection.”

11/03/2026

We are proud to share the reflections of Ms. Mariyam Nuha, 4th Batch JDS Fellow, who recently participated in the 4th Global Youth Forum for a Culture of Lawfulness, held in Tokyo, Japan from 5–7 March 2026.

“Participating in the Global Youth Forum for a Culture of Lawfulness was one of the many meaningful opportunities I’ve had while being here in Japan. The forum offered valuable insights from experts around the world—including a former astronaut and an ICC judge—who shared perspectives from their respective fields on the rule of law and social reintegration.

It was also a great space to connect with like-minded and aspiring youth leaders from across the world and Japan. Representing a small island nation in such a forum was truly an honor, and it was encouraging to see the commitment to including the voices of small island states in global conversations.

For anyone seeking similar experiences, being in Japan under the JDS scholarship really opens doors—not only to opportunities that deepen our research interests but also to engagements that support our professional aspirations.”

👏 We celebrate Ms. Nuha’s contribution in amplifying Maldivian voices on the global stage and her dedication to promoting youth engagement in strengthening the rule of law.

📸 Group photo from the official Kyoto Congress account () https://x.com/congresskyoto/status/2029955866146001388?s=46

10/03/2026

JDS 4th Batch Fellows, Ms. Mariyam Nuha and Ms. Aminath Nadha took part in the JDS Pre-return Program FY2025 held in Tokyo from 25–27 February 2026.

The program brought together JDS Fellows, Japanese government officials, and JICA representatives for discussions, leadership training, and networking. Highlights included sessions on gender awareness, leadership development, and a special lecture titled “If you were Prime Minister of Japan” by Dr. Tomohiko Taniguchi, University of Tsukuba.

It was a great opportunity to reflect on experiences in Japan, share ideas across borders, and strengthen ties between Japan and Fellows’ home countries.

26/02/2026

🌸 Life in Japan – A Fellow’s Perspective 🌸

"My experience in Japan has been a breath of fresh air for me. I have had the opportunity to meet people from many different countries and walks of life at my university. I have also had the opportunity to explore different prefectures and experience my first snow. All in all, I am greatly enjoying my time here."
- Ms. Mariyam Shara Ahmed - JDS 5th Batch Fellow, Ritsumeikan University -

✨ The JDS program continues to open doors for Maldivian fellows to explore new cultures, broaden their horizons, and pursue academic excellence in Japan.

03/02/2026

🌸✨ New beginnings in Japan often bring unexpected lessons, friendships, and growth. JDS 5th batch Fellow studying at the Ritsumeikan University, Ms. Udhuma Abdulla Inayath shares her journey with us.

"It’s only been a few months since I came to Japan, but this experience has already been truly eye-opening. I’m learning so much in class and from everyday life, and the support from JICE has made the transition much easier. If you’re thinking about applying, I really encourage you to go for it. You will learn a lot, meet great people, and get to experience Japan in a meaningful way. It’s been an exciting start, and I’m looking forward to what comes next!"

30/01/2026

🎉 A milestone moment! The very first JDS Alumni Event in the Maldives launching JDS Alumni Kizuna Maldives!

JDS Operating Committe members, Japanese professors, distinguished guests and Returned Fellows came together to reconnect, share experiences, and honor the journey of JDS Alumni.

This gathering marks the beginning of a new chapter for the JDS Alumni community in the Maldives, strengthening networks and celebrating shared achievements! 🌐🙌

26/12/2025

JDS 5th Batch Fellow, Fathimath Zahanath was invited by JICA Kyushu to attend the Fukuoka Platform for Sustainable Cities in Asia and the Pacific Conference held on 18 December 2025, where she participated as an observer.

The conference, co-organised by UN-Habitat, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan, and JICA, brought together government representatives, academia, and JICA offices across South Asia to discuss sustainable urban development, spatial planning, and regional cooperation.

The sessions provided valuable insights into UN-Habitat’s regional initiatives, comparative spatial planning approaches in South Asia, and JICA’s ongoing programmes, including a presentation on Maldives by Mr. TAKI Motoo, Resident Representative of JICA Maldives. The discussions also highlighted key challenges faced by South Asian countries in building sustainable and inclusive cities.