Students / Alumni
Students' voice
ZALDARRIAGA RITZI BUENA GANOT
(Class of 2025, The Philippines)
Choosing Rikkyo University to pursue my master’s degree has given me a rich academic experience beyond the classroom. The program is perfectly tailored for public service, with its focus on economics, public policy and administration; the courses are carefully curated to build and strengthen data analysis skills that will inform policy development and formulation. As Kataoka-sensei, our program head, always reminds us: ‘No data, no facts.’
Rikkyo University also prides itself for its excellent facilities, which have helped me immensely during my time here in Japan. MPMA students not only enjoyed Rikkyo’s impressive library and a dedicated study room equipped with STATA-installed computers, printers, and personal lockers, but also benefited from access to a gym and swimming pool, which encouraged a healthy balance between wellness and academic life.
The professors in the program are not only highly qualified graduates of prestigious universities, but also deeply committed to sharing their expertise. What I appreciate most is that MPMA goes beyond theory by organizing international business conferences, which have provided us opportunities to engage with global perspectives.
As a foreign student, I truly value the diversity of the program. I have met wonderful people from different parts of the world who have now become my friends. The university also organizes cultural and academic activities for international students. Through these opportunities, I was able to experience a sumo wrestling tournament and a tour of the National Museum. MPMA also organizes educational field trips during both the winter and summer semesters, which enriched my understanding of Japan’s culture, particularly in the area of disaster risk management.
My time at Rikkyo University has been nothing short of wonderful. I will take home these experiences with me, and I look forward to applying the knowledge and insights I have gained in my capacity as a public servant in the Philippines, particularly in shaping more effective and inclusive public policies.
Rikkyo University also prides itself for its excellent facilities, which have helped me immensely during my time here in Japan. MPMA students not only enjoyed Rikkyo’s impressive library and a dedicated study room equipped with STATA-installed computers, printers, and personal lockers, but also benefited from access to a gym and swimming pool, which encouraged a healthy balance between wellness and academic life.
The professors in the program are not only highly qualified graduates of prestigious universities, but also deeply committed to sharing their expertise. What I appreciate most is that MPMA goes beyond theory by organizing international business conferences, which have provided us opportunities to engage with global perspectives.
As a foreign student, I truly value the diversity of the program. I have met wonderful people from different parts of the world who have now become my friends. The university also organizes cultural and academic activities for international students. Through these opportunities, I was able to experience a sumo wrestling tournament and a tour of the National Museum. MPMA also organizes educational field trips during both the winter and summer semesters, which enriched my understanding of Japan’s culture, particularly in the area of disaster risk management.
My time at Rikkyo University has been nothing short of wonderful. I will take home these experiences with me, and I look forward to applying the knowledge and insights I have gained in my capacity as a public servant in the Philippines, particularly in shaping more effective and inclusive public policies.
MUSAH ABDUL SAMAD
(Class of 2025, Ghana)
As a Government official working within the Local Government Service in Ghana, I was looking for an opportunity to upgrade my career towards a global perspective. After doing my research on potential graduate schools, I chose the MPMA degree program at Rikkyo University due to the rigorous academic offerings as well as its world class faculty and facilities.
My decision turned out to be very true. On my very first day I got to see how dedicated the staff were at making sure we succeeded in the program. Over the course of two years, I made meaningful connections with my professors as well as classmates. I also got to serve as a teaching assistant for two courses – Development Economics and Urban and Regional Economics in addition to engaging in practical research with my supervisor.
My advice to anyone considering the MPMA program is to go for it!
You will be supported by world class professors and the administrative staff, who are the most kind and patient people I have met.
Thank you very much Rikkyo for giving me this opportunity, I am forever grateful!
My decision turned out to be very true. On my very first day I got to see how dedicated the staff were at making sure we succeeded in the program. Over the course of two years, I made meaningful connections with my professors as well as classmates. I also got to serve as a teaching assistant for two courses – Development Economics and Urban and Regional Economics in addition to engaging in practical research with my supervisor.
My advice to anyone considering the MPMA program is to go for it!
You will be supported by world class professors and the administrative staff, who are the most kind and patient people I have met.
Thank you very much Rikkyo for giving me this opportunity, I am forever grateful!
MADONNA SIMATUPANG
(Class of 2025, Indonesia)
I will always be grateful to my senpais who introduced me to Rikkyo University. When I applied for a scholarship for the joint degree program, I immediately chose Rikkyo as my university option in Japan.
The MPMA program has truly met my needs. Its curriculum is closely related to my work as a public servant, which is very important since my studies are supported by government funding. It also serves as a melting pot where students from diverse backgrounds and cultures can share experiences and discuss development challenges that are often similar across countries.
The professors are highly capable and deliver each lecture with passion, creating lively and engaging classes. The staff are very kind and always ready to help, while Rikkyo University as a whole provides holistic support for students. The library offers not only a place to study but also an audio room where I enjoy classical music, and the gym provides a convenient space to refresh between classes.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to study at Rikkyo University. It has enriched my knowledge and, just as importantly, allowed me to build valuable friendships across countries that I will always treasure.
The MPMA program has truly met my needs. Its curriculum is closely related to my work as a public servant, which is very important since my studies are supported by government funding. It also serves as a melting pot where students from diverse backgrounds and cultures can share experiences and discuss development challenges that are often similar across countries.
The professors are highly capable and deliver each lecture with passion, creating lively and engaging classes. The staff are very kind and always ready to help, while Rikkyo University as a whole provides holistic support for students. The library offers not only a place to study but also an audio room where I enjoy classical music, and the gym provides a convenient space to refresh between classes.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to study at Rikkyo University. It has enriched my knowledge and, just as importantly, allowed me to build valuable friendships across countries that I will always treasure.
Students' Achievement
MPMA Graduate 2021: Dr. Pham Van Truong’s Visit and Lecture
We are proud to share that Dr. Pham Van Truong, a MPMA graduate of 2021, completed his Ph.D. program at Hiroshima University in September 2025.
On his journey back to Vietnam, he graciously visited us to deliver a lecture and share insights from his five-year academic experience in
Japan.
His informative presentation deepened our understanding of field-based experimental studies and served as an inspiration to our students as
they consider their own academic and professional paths. Dr. Pham now returns to his home country, where he will contribute to its continued
development.
We sincerely hope our paths will cross again in the future.
On his journey back to Vietnam, he graciously visited us to deliver a lecture and share insights from his five-year academic experience in
Japan.
His informative presentation deepened our understanding of field-based experimental studies and served as an inspiration to our students as
they consider their own academic and professional paths. Dr. Pham now returns to his home country, where he will contribute to its continued
development.
We sincerely hope our paths will cross again in the future.
Chosen as a Representative Presenter at JICA Networking Seminar on Dec 2023
Our MPMA fellow, JOCEL LIBUTAN MAGISTRADO (class of 2024, The Philippines) was chosen as a representative presenter at the JICA Networking Seminar, which was designed to help JICA scholarship recipients understand the roles expected of JICA scholars, set goals for their post-return period considering their study duration, and establish networks among fellow JICA scholars as well as with JICA itself.
by JOCEL LIBUTAN MAGISTRADO (class of 2024, The Philippines)
【MPMA: Where Your Academic Journey Soars and Your Future Takes Flight!】
A defining moment in my professional journey unfolded unexpectedly when I emerged as the chosen representative among more than 900 scholars under the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) from diverse regions like America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. This remarkable opportunity granted me the privilege of presenting my research study and receiving feedback from the esteemed Japanese economist, Mr. Tanaka, who serves as the President of JICA.
Earning the nomination to speak at the JICA Scholars Networking seminar owes much to the valuable insights gained through my participation in the Rikkyo MPMA program. The university's academic freedom and diverse environment provided the ideal backdrop to expand my horizons and optimize my academic pursuits. Interacting with esteemed professors played a pivotal role, as they not only fostered my critical thinking skills but also guided me to discover exceptional resources relevant to the subjects I am actively engaged in.
The experience of representing not only Rikkyo University but also my home country, the Philippines and the government institution I am working for, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on an international stage was profoundly impactful. The genuine interest in my research, which focused on the pivotal shift towards prioritizing Human Resources alongside technological advancements, was both gratifying and unforeseen. I am thankful that my study on Work-Life Integration Strategies was chosen for discussion. Special thanks to my advisor, Kyohei Yamada Sensei, for his unwavering guidance and support since the inception of my research work. Similarly, Mitsuhiko Kataoka Sensei deserves acknowledgment for his generous feedback and suggestions that contributed to positive comments during my research presentation.
The engaging interaction with my MPMA classmates significantly enhanced my academic learning. Being surrounded by such intelligent individuals has propelled my thinking growth immensely. The support from my fellow scholars transcended mere encouragement; it was truly invigorating. After my presentation, their palpable enthusiasm transformed our interaction. Their keen interest and active engagement have filled me with sincere gratitude for the chance to share my voice on this global platform.
Earning the nomination to speak at the JICA Scholars Networking seminar owes much to the valuable insights gained through my participation in the Rikkyo MPMA program. The university's academic freedom and diverse environment provided the ideal backdrop to expand my horizons and optimize my academic pursuits. Interacting with esteemed professors played a pivotal role, as they not only fostered my critical thinking skills but also guided me to discover exceptional resources relevant to the subjects I am actively engaged in.
The experience of representing not only Rikkyo University but also my home country, the Philippines and the government institution I am working for, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on an international stage was profoundly impactful. The genuine interest in my research, which focused on the pivotal shift towards prioritizing Human Resources alongside technological advancements, was both gratifying and unforeseen. I am thankful that my study on Work-Life Integration Strategies was chosen for discussion. Special thanks to my advisor, Kyohei Yamada Sensei, for his unwavering guidance and support since the inception of my research work. Similarly, Mitsuhiko Kataoka Sensei deserves acknowledgment for his generous feedback and suggestions that contributed to positive comments during my research presentation.
The engaging interaction with my MPMA classmates significantly enhanced my academic learning. Being surrounded by such intelligent individuals has propelled my thinking growth immensely. The support from my fellow scholars transcended mere encouragement; it was truly invigorating. After my presentation, their palpable enthusiasm transformed our interaction. Their keen interest and active engagement have filled me with sincere gratitude for the chance to share my voice on this global platform.
