The Japanese government has encouraged domestic universities to explore admitting students from US institutions as President Donald Trump pushes for stricter oversight of Harvard University.
Last week, the Trump administration attempted to bar Harvard from admitting international students, but a judge temporarily halted the order pending further review. Trump has accused Harvard of resisting federal oversight in admissions and hiring, alleging it fosters anti-Semitism and progressive liberal ideologies.
On Tuesday, Japan’s Education Minister, Toshiko Abe, stated that her ministry had requested universities to assist affected students. “We’ve asked institutions to explore support options, including accepting international students currently enrolled in US universities, to ensure their education isn’t disrupted,” she said at a press briefing.
Abe noted that the US remains the top choice for Japanese students studying abroad, many of whom are now concerned about their academic status. She pledged her ministry’s “full efforts to ensure ambitious and talented youth can continue their studies.”
The University of Tokyo, one of Japan’s top schools, is evaluating temporary admissions for impacted US-based students, according to Vice President Kaori Hayashi in a Nikkei interview. Similarly, Kyoto University, another elite institution, told AFP it was considering hosting young researchers from US universities and assessing further support measures.
This follows Hong Kong Education Secretary Christine Choi’s recent appeal for local universities to welcome “top global students” amid the ongoing tensions.
