Applications open for Japan’s fully-funded JDS scholarships

Applications have opened for the Japanese Grant Aid for Human Resource Development Scholarship (JDS) for the 2027–2028 academic year, offering eligible Maldivian professionals the opportunity to pursue a two-year master’s degree at selected universities in Japan.

Launched in the Maldives in 2020, the JDS Project aims to develop future leaders who can contribute to national development and strengthen relations between the Maldives and Japan. The scholarships are focused on permanent staff at the civil service and independent institutions.

To date, 33 Maldivians have been dispatched to Japan.

Five scholarships are being offered for the upcoming academic year, with programs conducted in English.

Applicants have been asked to check the official guidelines and list of target organizations to confirm their eligibility before applying.

Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) is scheduled to conduct information sessions to explain the scholarship and application process, during which JDS alumni and current fellows studying in Japan will share their experiences.

All sessions will run from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm on the following dates:

• October 20 (Tuesday):  Online via Zoom
• October 29 (Thursday): Online via Zoom
• November 8 (Sunday): In-person
• November 19 (Thursday): In-person
• November 26 (Thursday): Online via Zoom
• December 6 (Sunday): Online via Zoom

A special online seminar on writing a research plan will be held on from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm on November 22.

Interested applicants have been asked to register for the information sessions and follow the JDS Maldives Facebook page for registration details and venue announcements.

Applications must be submitted through the JDS Online Application System by 4:00 pm on December 14.

Additional information regarding application guidelines, registration details and other updates are available on the official JDS Maldives website and the JDS Maldives Facebook page.