Before the Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship, Rogie Royce Carandang was a college student with big dreams and a global perspective. His passion for science and desire to make meaningful contributions to the field motivated him to seek opportunities beyond his undergraduate education. Carandang envisioned expanding his knowledge and skills to push the boundaries of what he could achieve.
However, before discovering the Ajinomoto Foundation Scholarship Program, Carandang was searching for a clear direction. He was a high achiever, brimming with potential but unsure how to translate his aspirations into reality. Once he came across the scholarship program, everything changed. Recognizing it as the perfect opportunity to pursue his postgraduate studies in Japan, Carandang applied and began a transformative journey that would redefine his career and personal growth.
Carandang’s experience in Japan was life-changing. He understood that success required hard work and dedication, and he embraced the challenges of studying abroad with determination. The scholarship not only provided financial support but also offered a platform for Carandang to immerse himself in a new culture and academic environment. This experience enabled him to make significant breakthroughs, including research contributions that may one day lead to cures for illnesses like cancer.
In April 2013, Carandang embarked on his Master’s Degree in Aquatic Natural Products Chemistry at the prestigious University of Tokyo. By the time he completed the program in March 2016, he had published his research in an international journal, a remarkable achievement that underscored the impact of his work. Building on this success, Carandang secured a position as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Connecticut Health, further advancing his career and cementing his status as a world-class researcher.
Reflecting on his journey, Carandang credits the Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship as a pivotal factor in his success. “This scholarship is not just financial support—it is a transformative opportunity to broaden your horizons, advance your career, and make a lasting impact in your field,” says Carandang, now a globally recognized Research Fellow. His story is a testament to the power of hard work, focus, and seizing opportunities that align with one’s goals.
The Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship Program has a mission to nurture future leaders by providing financial and cultural support for deserving students. The program enables scholars to pursue master’s degrees in Food Science and Technology, Human Nutrition, Chemistry, and Engineering at top universities in Japan. It is designed to create global impact by fostering innovation and excellence among its recipients.
Carandang’s journey exemplifies the program’s potential to shape not only professional trajectories but also personal growth. Through his postgraduate studies, Carandang discovered new dreams, tackled complex problems, and developed innovative solutions. His achievements serve as an inspiration for aspiring scholars who wish to make their mark on the global stage.
Now, the Ajinomoto Foundation is seeking applicants for the 2026 cycle of the Postgraduate Scholarship Program. This initiative is open to Filipino students who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to advancing their fields. By participating in this program, scholars gain access to world-class education, immersive cultural experiences, and the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research.
For Carandang, the scholarship was more than a stepping stone—it was a springboard to a future he could never have imagined as a college student. Today, his goals are far greater than he initially envisioned, fueled by the possibilities unveiled during his time in Japan. His journey reflects the transformative power of education and the immense potential of programs like the Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship to shape lives and drive global progress.
To learn more about the 2026 Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship Program and how it can help you achieve your dreams, visit Ajinomoto Philippines.
