Regarding the June 19 story, “Japan's re-entry ban threatens scholarships, admission and graduation for foreign students,” I am Ph.D. student in one of Japan’s national universities. Due to the travel restriction I am stuck in my country, having to cope with the time difference and the online classes, presentations and reports. As much as I try to keep up with all the online work, all of my lab work is delayed. Sometimes there is total lack of motivation and I have even felt the need for validation that I am a student in a university in Japan.
I understand that the Japan government is concerned about the pandemic situation, but Ii would like them to at least consider allowing foreign students to enter under certain rules. Most countries have started opening borders. However, Japan remains very strict about it and I see that 18 more countries have been added to the entry restriction list.
Not being able to enter Japan is very stressful and I think students like me who are not able to enter Japan might be feeling the same. I really hope to be in Japan soon! I plead with the goverment to please please please consider the situation of international students.
The opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are the writer's own and do not necessarily reflect the policies of The Japan Times.