Oxford launches new scholarship programme inspired by Japan’s Chōshū Five
The chosen scholars will be known as the ‘Uehiro Five’, in a nod to the young Japanese Samurai who undertook the treacherous journey to London in 1863.
A generous gift from the Uehiro Foundation on Ethics and Education has enabled the creation of the Oxford–Uehiro Graduate Scholarship Programme.
The scholarships were inspired by the story of the Chōshū Five, a group of young Japanese Samurai who undertook the treacherous sea journey to England in 1863. The group spoke little or no English but were determined to learn from the West, enrolling at University College London during their stay. On their return to Japan the men went on to form the heart of a new Japanese government and academic community, greatly contributing to the modernisation of Japan.
In recognition of their endeavour, the Oxford–Uehiro Graduate Scholarship Programme will provide full funding for up to five Japanese students studying at Oxford each year, with the chosen scholars to be known informally as the ‘Uehiro Five’. It is hoped that, through the knowledge and experience gained during their studies, they too will go on to become leaders in their respective fields.
Mr Tetsuji Uehiro, Chairman of the Uehiro Foundation on Ethics and Education, said: ‘I am delighted to be able to offer this opportunity to allow more Japanese students to study overseas and I hope that they will go on to contribute to Japan’s efforts to promote peace, stability and sustainable development in the international community.’
The foundation’s gift has been matched by the University, enabling the endowment of the programme. The first recipients of the scholarships, which are available to students undertaking any postgraduate course in any subject area (except for the MBA), commenced their studies in October 2023.
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