MEXT Student, Ms. Elchung Hideyos Visits the Embassy

2025/8/7

On August 6th, Deputy Chief of Mission Mr. Ono met with Ms. Elchung Hideyos to congratulate her on receiving the MEXT Scholarship. During their meeting, they discussed her passion for conservation as well as her impressive educational background..

Ms. Elchung Hideyos will pursue her Ph.D. at Kindai University, focusing on the taro plant and traditional taro patch systems. Her research bridges traditional knowledge with scientific data to help preserve these vital cultural practices. This is also not her first time in Japan, she previously received the Sophia-APIC-BRMC Scholarship in 2019 and earned a Master’s in Global Environmental Studies from Sophia University. Prior to her studies in Japan, Ms. Elchung received her Bachelor’s degree in Environment Studies from Chaminade University in Hawaii.

Her passion for conservation began at a young age, planting trees and farming clams alongside her mother, a dedicated conservationist. Early in her career, she also discovered a love for education, especially working with youth. She hopes to inspire young people to become more aware of the importance of conserving traditional knowledge and the environment.