Japan, Agencia IP.- In an exclusive interview, Dr. Yoko Fujikake, Dean of the College of Urban Science at Yokohama National University, expressed her excitement about the celebration of Paraguay’s National Day in Osaka and reflected on her deep and sustained efforts toward the development of Paraguayan communities.
Fujikake holds a PhD in Anthropology and Development and has been a renowned academic actively working in Paraguay for over 30 years. In addition to her work with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), she is also the President of the Mita’i—Mitakuña’i Foundation.
Among her most significant contributions, she highlighted the construction of four schools in Coronel Oviedo and San Juan cities.
During the interview, Dr. Fujikake shared her joy at the large public turnout at the event: «I am thrilled and excited because today is the day to celebrate Paraguay’s National Day, and so many people are coming. Even people who didn’t know about Paraguay are approaching with great interest.»
She also emphasized the participation of her students from Yokohama University: «Early this morning, 17 students arrived to congratulate and celebrate Paraguay’s National Day,« she said.
Another highlight of the event was the visit of the President of the Republic, Santiago Peña, and the First Lady, Leticia Ocampos. «I’m pleased to meet them,« Fujikake expressed, recalling that one of her students had the opportunity to meet the President last year.
She is currently leading various cooperation projects. Among them, she highlighted an agrotourism initiative in Coronel Oviedo and La Colmena and programs in Bañado Sur to generate income for single mothers. She also mentioned a project focused on strengthening the production of the traditional ñandutí lace by increasing the number of lace makers and facilitating its commercialization with student support.
This is a testament to the solidarity between Japan and Paraguay and how international cooperation can transform lives through consistent work, cultural respect, and education.