Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla of Manipur engaged with candidates of the Specified Skilled Workers (SSW) program at Lok Bhavan, Imphal. Initiated by the Japanese Government in April 2019, the SSW provides a residency status for Indian youth, enabling them to work and reside in Japan. The Memorandum of Cooperation between India and Japan for this program was signed in January 2021, marking a significant step in bilateral relations.
During the meeting, the Governor met candidates and their parents from various districts of Manipur, including Ukhrul, Senapati, Imphal East and West, Thoubal, as well as an Internally Displaced Person from Churachandpur. These individuals have successfully passed both the Japanese language proficiency test and a skills proficiency examination, qualifying them to work in diverse sectors such as nursing, hospitality, and manufacturing in Japan. Thirteen of these candidates have been granted the Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) and are set to depart for Japan later this month.
The candidates conveyed their enthusiasm and gratitude towards the opportunities that lay ahead. In response, the Governor extended his best wishes, encouraging them to embody the values and cultural essence of both Manipur and India as they serve in Japan, reminding them of their role as ambassadors of goodwill in a foreign land.