Princess Mako of Akishino Graduating from the University of Leicester

Our University is delighted to announce that Princess Mako of Akishino has been awarded her postgraduate degree in Museum Studies.

Princess Mako has achieved her Master’s degree in Art Museum and Gallery Studies after a year in the department and studying on campus.

Speaking at a press opportunity marking the end of her year of taught Master’s degree, Princess Mako said in Japanese that "her time at the University of Leicester had been ‘a wonderful experience'."

She later added: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude for having had the opportunity to pursue my studies in such a favourable environment. It has been a very fruitful year for me. I hope to apply what I have learned at postgraduate school in the future."

President and Vice-Chancellor of our University Professor Paul Boyle said: “Leicester’s School of Museum Studies is world-renowned and is among the highest ranked research departments in the UK. We are delighted that Princess Mako chose to study with us and trust that she had a wonderful time in Leicester. We will be proud to count her among our alumni and hope that she will continue to engage with our University in the future.”

Her Imperial Highness Princess Mako of Akishino is a member of the Japanese Imperial Family. She is the eldest daughter of Their Imperial Highnesses Prince and Princess of Akishino and the first-born granddaughter of Their Majesties Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko.