Japanese Government honours Dr Eric Albone MBE
On Tuesday 6 June 2017, Ambassador Tsuruoka bestowed the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays, upon Dr Eric Albone MBE, Director of the Clifton Scientific Trust, in recognition of his significant contribution to strengthening and developing relations between Japan and the United Kingdom for many years.
Founded by Dr Albone, the Clifton Scientific Trust promotes science through educational projects, and established the UK-Japan Young Scientist Workshop Programme which brings together post-16 school and college students from Japan and the UK. Since it started in 2001, a thousand students from Japan and the UK have participated in 19 such workshops at universities in both countries.
During his opening remarks, Ambassador Tsuruoka praised Dr Albone’s many years of achievements, including his invaluable efforts following the Great East Japan Earthquake and ensuring tsunami, when he welcomed students and teachers from the affected areas to the UK-Japan Young Scientist Workshop in the UK. Ambassador also read out a letter from Mr Masao Uchibori, Governor of Fukushima, thanking Dr Albone for the ‘dreams and hope’ that he gave to those affected.
After receiving his decoration from the Ambassador, Dr Albone expressed his appreciation to all those who have been involved in the UK-Japan Young Scientist Workshop over the years, and talked fondly of the many young students who, over a short time, developed their confidence and communication skills through the programme.
Please click here for Dr Eric Albone MBE’s speech.