The Japanese government has urged its universities to consider admitting students currently enrolled at American universities, following escalating tensions over the U.S. administration’s increased oversight of foreign student admissions, particularly targeting Harvard University.
Last week, the Trump administration sought to restrict Harvard’s intake of international students amid concerns about federal oversight. However, on May 23, a judge issued a temporary injunction blocking this order pending further hearings.
President Donald Trump criticized Harvard for resisting government scrutiny, accusing the institution of harboring anti-Semitic views and promoting a “woke” liberal ideology.
On May 27, Japan’s Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Toshiko Abe, announced that the ministry has requested Japanese universities to support students affected by the dispute. At a press conference, Abe said, “We have asked universities to explore possible support measures, such as accepting international students currently studying at U.S. universities, enabling them to continue their education.”
She highlighted that the United States remains the most popular study abroad destination for Japanese students, many of whom are now worried about their academic status due to the ongoing uncertainty.
The ministry affirmed it will “make every effort to ensure talented young people can continue pursuing their academic goals.”
Among Japan’s leading universities, the University of Tokyo’s Vice President Kaori Hayashi told Nikkei News that the institution is considering temporarily admitting affected U.S. students. Similarly, a spokesperson from Kyoto University confirmed on May 28 that the university is exploring ways to support American students and young researchers.
In related news, Hong Kong’s Education Secretary Choi Ying-ming last week called on universities to actively welcome “outstanding students from around the world.”
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