Vietnam, Japan Agree on Measures to Control Vietnamese Students

Vietnam’s Ministry of Education and Training (MOIT) has discussed with the Japanese Embassy and agreed on measures to control Vietnamese students in Japan and prevent them from illegally staying in the country. The number of Vietnam students studying in Japan has grown rapidly in recent years. Most of them tried to stay in the country after they graduated or completed their courses of study. This has increased the number of illegal Vietnamese immigrants and crimes in Japan, according to Pham Quang Hung, head of the MOIT’s International Education Development. Around 60,000 Vietnamese students are currently studying in Japan. The number of students in universities makes up only 7%-8% while others come to learn the Japanese language. Japan will control the granting of visa for Vietnamese citizens, but still ensure the rights of those who have legitimate aspirations for studying and working in the country, said Japanese Ambassador Umeda Kunio. MOIT Minister Phung Xuan Nha said Vietnam will strengthen its state governance on international study consulting services, check all overseas study consulting firms and help citizens realize inaccurate information. (Bao Binh Dinh Feb 28,VnExpress Feb 28)