SHAFIQULLAH YOUSAFZAI

Voices of International Students

Feb 25, 2025

Doctoral Program in International Public Policy, Degree Programs in Humanities and Social Sciences, Graduate School of Business Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences

From Afghanistan

What do you enjoy about Tsukuba (University of Tsukuba and Tsukuba City)?

University of Tsukuba is well-known for its diverse academic disciplines, fostering an environment where international students can pursue education and research across various fields. To enhance learning, the university encourages students by valuing intellectual curiosity, creating a truly enriching academic experience for many. In an era of rapid technological advancement, Tsukuba remains at the forefront by integrating cutting-edge developments into both research and education. This ensures that students are not only proficient in theory but also equipped with practical skills to investigate and solve the problems of the evolving world. I really enjoy the seminars, workshops, and lab meetings in our department, where new ideas are explored through comprehensive discussions, which enhance my learning and provide opportunities to meet researchers and fellows. I also like and participate in events such as tea parties, welcoming new cohorts, and social gatherings with colleagues. Regarding Tsukuba City—trust me, you will love it. Although it is not like Tokyo and is farther from major urban centers, it remains convenient with public transportation, 24-hour stores, and parks that improve the quality of life.

What do you want to accomplish as a student of the University of Tsukuba during your study period?

As a student of economics, I am interested in exploring and investigating the economic aspects of socioeconomic problems associated with trade. One of my research goals is to understand how exchange rate volatility affects the growth of industrial exports in countries where the labor market is highly rigid. Most countries introduce regulations for employment protection. However, strict regulations can be costly in adverse economic conditions when firms face economic shocks. Volatility in exchange rates leads to fluctuations in firms' profits, requiring them to mitigate the negative effects of such volatility. One possible response is to adjust the labor force. However, a highly rigid labor market restricts such adjustments, consequently amplifying the negative effects of exchange rate volatility on the export growth of manufacturing industries. This implies that exports can be significantly influenced by exchange rate volatility, despite being one of the key economic drivers of a country. I aim to further extend my research and explore how exports influence economic growth and inequality at the subnational level and, ultimately, how they impact the welfare of people.