[Voices from Students in Japan] Mr. HARUNA Emmanuel Umoru | Kobe University

My research focuses on the connection between financial development and the shadow economy in the Anglophone countries of West Africa (Nigeria, Ghana, and The Gambia). In particular, I'm investigating how the shadow economy is influenced by financial development; why individual households and businesses try to go underground by avoiding taxation and government regulation. I will also analyse the complex relationship between the shadow economy and the growth of the credit market.

Studying in Japan gives me the ability to blend academic learning with improvements in behaviour. The former enables me to study both theoretical and practical methods at Kobe University (Graduate School of International Cooperation Studies) to solve economic questions (Development Economics), while the latter reminds me of the "UBUNTU" spirit of "I am because we are" or "Humanity towards others." That is exactly what it will teach you to study in Japan! 

My future career path is to be a consultant for development policy, and a government technocrat, advocating on a global level for the national interest of Nigeria.

It can be so fascinating to study in Japan to cause a behavioural shift; you can't stay the same person as your old self. Nevertheless, you should be prepared to accept the challenging environment, especially language and cultural obstacles. Whenever you travel abroad for further studies, culture shock is a reality. It is important to choose a good university that provides career-breaking ground and be prepared to engage in voluntary activities to contribute to your host university and community. This could give you the experience of studying outside the classroom to take you back to Africa.