The Duchess of Edinburgh opened up about her daughter, Lady Louise Windsor, studying international relations as part of her English degree at St Andrews University during an official visit to Japan.

The fourth-year student is focusing on global politics alongside literature in her final year at St Andrews, the same university attended by Prince William and Princess Kate in the early 2000s.

 

The Telegraph reported: “The Duchess’ face lit up as she revealed that her daughter, Lady Louise, 21, was studying the subject as part of her English degree.”

Lady Louise, who lives largely out of the public eye, has combined her academic work with a number of demanding activities.

Duchess of Edinburgh and Lady Louise Windsor

Duchess of Edinburgh’s face ‘lights up’ with mention of daughter Lady Louise Windsor

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She joined the St Andrews University Officers’ Training Corps, which includes basic weapons training, leadership lessons and challenging navigation exercises.

Fellow students have reported seeing her take part in field weekends and endurance marches.

The late Queen’s youngest granddaughter has also appeared in student theatre productions, including playing a “powerful and cynical witch” in Dragon Theatre last January, according to the university’s student newspaper.

Away from campus, she continues to pursue her long-standing interest in carriage driving, a sport she shared with her late grandfather, Prince Philip.

Duchess of Edinburgh

The Duchess of Edinburgh is visiting Japan with her husband

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She was last seen publicly in August, competing in the National Carriage Driving Calendar in Essex.

The Duchess of Edinburgh shared the personal detail about her daughter on Saturday during a meeting with Ukrainian refugees and evacuees in Tokyo.

Sophie, 60, met 16-year-old Daniel Zagorodniy, who now lives alone in the city after his parents returned to Ukraine.

“Who cooks for you? Who does the household chores?” she asked.

Duchess of Edinburgh

The Duchess of Edinburgh with Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado

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When Mr Zagorodniy replied that he manages everything himself, the duchess said: “As well as studying? Goodness me. That’s a lot for a 16-year-old.

“Well, I’m sure your mother is happy to know that you’re safe. I don’t underestimate how hard it is, so well done.”

Mr Zagorodniy told Sophie he hopes to study international relations at university, prompting her to speak about Lady Louise’s course and plans.Prince Edward and Duchess of Edinburgh

Prince Edward and Duchess of Edinburgh in Japan

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Sophie and Prince Edward arrived in Japan on September 18 for an official visit that has included cultural engagements and meetings with government representatives.

Their schedule has involved events in Tokyo and beyond, focusing on education, youth opportunities and support for people displaced by conflict.

The Duchess has previously travelled to Ukraine and has been outspoken in her support for those affected by the Russian invasion, which she described as “heartbreaking” in earlier engagements.

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The Duchess of Edinburgh pictured with Ukrainian refugees

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