I welcome expressions of interest from students who wish to pursue their PhD and Masters research at Hiroshima University on topics related to International Relations theories, post-conflict peacebuilding, the peace/conflict-environment nexus and human rights issues in the Philippines.

I also welcome proposals from researchers who wish to embark on a postdoctoral research at Hiroshima University under the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) fellowship program.

Please visit my Hiroshima University profile for my e-mail address.

Expressions of interest should include your CV and one-page research proposal containing your research question, research relevance, and methodology.

For more information about the application procedure at the International Peace and Co-existence Program of the Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences, click here for the Master’s program and here for the PhD program. Visit the Hiroshima University International Admissions Assistant System for support in your applications.

Please visit here for scholarship information provided by Hiroshima University.

Other references for scholarships for international students in Japan:
– Scholarships for international students (MEXT)
– Japan Grant Aid for Human Resource Development (JDS)

Current Students

Meng Chen (China)

Master’s Student (2022-), International Peace and Co-existence Program, Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Research topic: Environmental Cooperation between China and Pakistan in the Context of the Belt and Road Initiative
Hobbies: swimming, music, drawing, watching figure skating
Quote of peace: “Human hope is like an eternal star, dark clouds can’t cover up its light. Especially today, peace is not an ideal, a dream, it is the wish of ten thousand people.” – Ba Jin

“After my undergraduate university, I had about six months of work experience. My busy work made me realize that the world is vast, but my knowledge reserve is small. I want to enrich my mind and understand the world more clearly. In a globalized world, peace and conflict are hot topics. I expect that through my studies at Hiroshima University I will be able to contribute to the development of peace for humanity. Hiroshima University is famous university with excellent faculty. Unlike the noisy metropolis, Hiroshima University has beautiful natural scenery and a tranquil environment, where you can concentrate on your studies.”  

Faribo Idibekzoda (Tajikistan)

Master’s Student (2022-), International Peace and Co-existence Program, Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Research topic: Comparative analysis of the implementation of environmental SDGs in Tajikistan and Japan
Hobbies: reading and never getting tired of endless books on geopolitics and geoeconomics, international security, and diplomacy
Quote of peace: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” – the simplest universal golden rule, also known as the Law of Reciprocity, found in the tenets of most religions. It is only through mutual respect among people of different faiths and cultures that we can coexist in peace without wars and causing suffering to each other.

“After completing my BS in International Relations, I interned in Tajikistan at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), UNICEF, and the World Bank. Through these internships, I became familiar with how international organizations operate in Tajikistan on a regional and individual levels. I also obtained valuable professional skills in public affairs and public outreach. Before coming to Hiroshima University, I worked for two years at the MFA of Tajikistan. After my studies, I will go back to my country to implement all experiences I gained.
Hiroshima University, particularly the International Peace and Co-existence Program, is the best to enroll for those interested in peace and peacebuilding. Students become equipped not only with the theoretical aspect of International Relations but also with practical skills. Hiroshima University is a comfortable place to live and study, with good and supportive professors and supervisors, making the learning process more enjoyable.”

Vrajesh Rawal (India)

Master’s Student (2023-), International Peace and Co-existence Program, Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Research topic: Exploring the relationship between communal violence and self-determination in the Indian Kashmir region
Hobbies: keeping up-to-date with news and analysis on geopolitics, security, and diplomacy
Quote of peace: “Peace is not merely a distant goal that we seek, but a means by which we arrive at that goal.” – Subhas Chandra Bose

“Upon completing my undergraduate degree in International Relations, I secured internships at the Embassies of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Moldova in Japan, which provided me with a comprehensive understanding of how international organizations operate at the embassy level and enabled me to develop my communication and diplomacy skills. I was drawn to the International Peace and Co-existence Program at Hiroshima University because of its excellent academic reputation and experienced faculty members. The program is providing me with a conducive environment to gain theoretical and practical skills to address issues related to peace and conflict, guided by knowledgeable professors who are dedicated to nurturing their students’ potential. Their supportive approach to teaching and learning has made the learning process not only enjoyable but also impactful. It is my wish that with the skills I acquire from this program, I could contribute meaningfully to the promotion of peace and stability and make a positive impact in my community.”

Peace Chinaza Nwigwe (Nigeria)

Master’s Student (2023-), Social Innovation Science, Graduate School of Innovation and Practice for Smart Society
Research topic: Resource conflicts in Nigeria: challenges to peace and sustainability
Hobbies: swimming, drawing, arts and crafts, traveling, photography, volunteering and hair styling
Quote of peace: “Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding.” – Albert Einstein

“I choose to study in the Graduate School of Innovation and Practice for Smart Society because of my desire to buildg a career in strategic peacebuilding through educational and innovative ways of dealing with conflicts. In achieving my academic goals and dream career, I chose Hiroshima University because of its reputation in terms of excellent facilities, learning support, friendly campus, internationally oriented curriculum, and competent faculty. After my master’s course, I plan to further into the doctoral course in peacebuilding and develop my skills and acquire more knowledge that will equip me to become a global peace ambassador. The experience and knowledge gained during my research will be directed towards developing solutions for solving some of the global problems, especially in developing countries in Africa and the rest of the world. I am hoping to apply the knowledge gained from Hiroshima University in reality by formulating policies that are both feasible and effective in maintaining and solving the complex and diverse conflict issues facing humanity.”