SERANG – Minister of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions (Mendes PDT) Yandri Susanto affirmed that the selection outcome for the Japan scholarship program is determined entirely by candidate merit, free from any outside intervention. He guaranteed that neither he nor local government heads hold the authority to dictate who passes the selection process.

"Maintain your enthusiasm, seek your parents' blessings, and follow every stage of the process. Whether you pass or not rests entirely upon your own efforts—it is beyond my control, the Regent's control, or anyone else's," Minister Yandri emphasized during his opening address at the Offline Selection Opening for the Japan Scholarship Program at the Bai Mahdi Sholeh Makmun Islamic Boarding School, Serang, on Monday (November 2, 2026).

Minister Yandri highlighted that this scholarship initiative represents a major opportunity for rural youth to build personal capacity while acquiring global education and international exposure. Consequently, he urged all applicants to take full advantage of this opportunity and approach every assessment phase with utmost dedication.

According to Minister Yandri, studying in Japan provides more than technical skills and academic knowledge; it serves as a vital framework for character building. Participants are expected to embody discipline, maintain proper etiquette, and respect local customs and cultural norms.

"This is an exceptional opportunity—it is Kemendes PDT's way of elevating the potential of rural youth. Do not let this pass. Approach it seriously because you will be trained in discipline and high ethical standards. Do not carry bad habits from here over there," Minister Yandri stated.

Furthermore, Minister Yandri advised youth who secure the opportunity to study in Japan to look beyond seeking employment upon graduation. Instead, they are expected to become job creators by bringing home the knowledge, skills, and international experience acquired during their tenure in Japan.

This vision directly intersects with various strategic Kemendes PDT programs, providing collaborative space for rural youth to build enterprises and drive local economic development—including through the Export Village (Desa Ekspor) and Tourism Village (Desa Wisata) initiatives, alongside rural healthcare and infrastructure sectors.

"Upon returning from Japan, do not search for a job—create employment opportunities instead. Kemendes PDT manages numerous programs, such as Export Villages and Tourism Villages, all of which can serve as partnership platforms for you to generate jobs," he revealed.

The scholarship program is designed to cultivate rural youth equipped with global competitiveness, strong character, and technical expertise. Ultimately, candidates are expected to return home to innovate and actively contribute to driving rural progress and self-reliance.

Photo: Sigit/Kemendes PDT 
Author: Ria/Kemendes PDT