Commencement Address for the Class of 2006, Kochi University
I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of you who have earned your bachelor’s degrees and are graduating today.
To all the family members in attendance, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations on this special day as your child graduates from Kochi University—a moment that must be particularly moving for you.
On behalf of Kochi University, I would like to express my gratitude to all the distinguished guests and attendees here today.
As you graduate, if you take a moment to recall who you were when you first entered Kochi University, you will surely realize anew just how much you have achieved during your time here.
I’m sure you’ll also realize that the knowledge and skills you’ve acquired have reached a level that would have been impossible to achieve without the excellent guidance of your faculty and senior students.
The faculty and staff would like to express their sincere appreciation for the hard work you have put in during your time here.
On this graduation day, what we, the faculty and staff, strongly hope for you is that you will not squander the achievements you have earned.
If you ever treat yourselves poorly, it means that you are treating yourselves poorly.
As we reflect on the Earth, the foundation of our existence, and seek harmony between humanity and nature in today’s world, the most important thing is for you, the young people, to continue thinking about how you will apply what you have learned. When you persistently ask yourselves and society how to put your learning into practice, a path will naturally open up before you.
As we reflect on the 20th century and consider the direction in which we should set out in the 21st century, the world remains in a state of turmoil even today, in 2007. In these turbulent times, young people are always given opportunities to take on challenges. It is through the efforts of many young people that the vision of our era takes shape.The vast knowledge and skills you have acquired are the very competitive edge that will support your endeavors. Please face these challenges without forgetting to deeply consider others and to reflect on yourselves with humility. It is only when we strive to overcome difficulties that dreams are born and hope is nurtured.
I believe that you have the power to shape your own 21st century. With this in mind, as your president, I offer you these parting words: “Plow on, and the soil will never run dry.”
I conclude my remarks with the sincere hope that you will maintain your physical and mental well-being, that your lives will be filled with hope, and above all, that you will have no regrets.
Congratulations on your graduation.
March 23, 2007
Kochi University, a National University Corporation, President Yusuke Sagara