It’s a great pleasure for me to introduce myself as a World Bank scholar in the Public Policy and Taxation program at Yokohama National University in Japan which gives me an opportunity to learn about Japanese economy, culture, people and the history of this developed country. Before arriving here, I was posted at the National Board of Revenue, the central tax administration in Bangladesh, as a tax officer.

This program at YNU is well-designed and suited for my career goals of obtaining professional training in public policy and taxation. Besides the class lectures, we attend the National Tax College, under the Ministry of Finance, for internship and field trips. This definitely helps to enlighten my knowledge about the Japanese tax system and culture. I believe the experience which I acquired at YNU will be extremely beneficial for efficiently discharging my duties as a tax officer. After completing my degree, I would like to come back to my job in Bangladesh and use my knowledge and vision for the solution of practical problems in tax administration, and also identify and formulate new policies for my country.

The Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program at Yokohama National University has provided me and my fellow students a unique chance to gain a Master’s degree in Public Policy and Taxation at one of the best universities of Japan. Highly diversified study in combination with the practicum at the National Tax College, outstanding faculty and research facilities, emphasis on a collaborative learning environment, flexibility in curriculum, and attentive support of MPE staff meet the highest requirements in organization of the educational process and students’ stay in Japan.

On my first (and short) visit to Japan in 2003, I was impressed by the incredible economic achievements of Japan during the last 50-60 years. Even though I had certainly learned a lot about Japan before coming to this country, reality surpassed all my expectations. Since that time I have sought to get a better understanding of the roots of the phenomenon called “Japanese Economic Miracle” and also, be familiar with Japanese culture, traditions and people. Needless to say, field trips organized by MPE office will deepen our comprehension of Japan. I’m sure I have made a wise choice attending this program which, without any doubt, will fruitfully contribute to my personal as well as my country’s development.

Sierra Leone and Japan share one planet. But life at Yokohama National University has made it clear that we are living in two different worlds as there is more contrast than similarity. The PPT program at Yokohama National University is complete in every sense of the word - rich multicultural and socio-economic diversity, well suited to the status quo of developing countries, unique administrative setup and arrangement, range of facilities for students, lecturers and staff ever ready to assist and listen to students, and a course that transforms its participants into finished human resources ready to face the rigors of nation building. I am particularly honored to be part of this galaxy.

I have been working for the National Revenue Authority of Sierra Leone. The challenges facing my country are breathtaking and can’t be handled by just a handful of people. Human and capital resource needs remain the most paramount on its list of needs. Like any other participant in this program, I owe a moral obligation to go back home and deliver on what I have acquired. I will definitely try to prove to my country that I have gained valuable knowledge. Hence, I look forward to seeing more Sierra Leoneans come to this reputable university for not only the PPT program but also the Infrastructure Management Program.

Recommended by the Ministry of Planning & Economic Affairs, Republic of Liberia for this program, this is a glorious opportunity for the people of Liberia, and me particularly, to be the first mid-career professional from Liberia trained in the Public Policy and Taxation program at YNU. I am greatly impressed with the culture and traditions of the peaceful and very hospitable people of Japan. Everything about the program is well planned in terms of housing, medical facilities, daily living, and the prestigious academic program itself.

Upon my return to Liberia, I am definitely considering a strategy to be presented to the Government of Liberia based on the knowledge and experience from this training in the following two ways. First and foremost is to make the tax system and administration in Liberia people-friendly and people-centered. Just as the national budget preparation is now involving consultative meetings from the Village and Town levels, taxation and other public policy issues will take the center stage in my strategy to ensure taxpayers’ compliance and transparency. My primary objective is to ensure that ordinary taxpayers, civil social organizations and the private sector understand the intricacies and socioeconomic benefits of a functioning and well-managed taxation system for a developing country like Liberia. The next approach will concentrate on public policy consolidation so as to make the aggregate economic system of Liberia relatively functional and attractive. Finally, this training will provide an alternative source of knowledge to supplement the ongoing ‘Poverty Reduction Strategy’ implementation in Liberia.

Being a World Bank scholarship student in the PPT Program at Yokohama National University is amazing. MPE program has nice facilities that are conducive for the student to learn. The programme offers subjects which are internationally competitive and well suited for the students from developing countries. As for the NTA Internship, it offers students best knowledge of Japanese Tax System. PPT program is deepening my knowledge, and understanding of social and economic issues as well as tax policies of Japan. In addition, the program is equipping me with advanced analytical tools in economics which would enable me to carry out rigorous, objective policy research and analysis, which is central to formulation of quality tax policies in government. As the world today is fast moving towards an integrated and interdependent world economy, the program is broaden my horizon in understanding the globalization process and its benefits to developing countries.

During the summer, the program is offering field trips which are important for me to learn more about Japan’s culture, development and also historical places. I am grateful that YNU gave me this opportunity to study in Japan and at this University where I am making friendship with people from different walks of life and developing my skills for the benefit of my country.

Working in a developing country like Bhutan, I always dreamt of studying abroad to enhance not only my knowledge and skills in my field of work but also to broaden my limited horizon and exposure. Therefore, when I realized that I was one of the five lucky candidates to be participating in the PPT program for the academic year 2009–2011, my joy knew no bound. First, I want to express my sincere and immense gratitude to the World Bank and the Japanese Government for giving me this rare opportunity. I sincerely intend to repay this debt through dedicated learning here and go back home to be a better policy maker in my department.

As for the academic program here, it is excellent. Our course is designed in such a way that we are taught the very best subjects for learning public policy matters which is well complemented by the learned, dedicated team of professors. On the taxation front, what could be more ideal than being taught by a team of tax professionals themselves? The excellent program provided by National Tax College (NTC) tax specialists makes a perfect match for our perfect learning. Also, I am looking forward to the field trips and the opportunity to interact with tax officials in Japan.

Finally, I shall never forget the sweet care that is being showered upon us by the MPE staff and the professors alike. As long as we are in Japan, our safety and comforts are guaranteed and therefore, our families and colleagues back home need not worry about us.