Graduate School Address for the 2004 Academic Year, Graduate School

　I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of you who have completed Graduate School and received your degrees, and I have high hopes for your future.

　諸君は、研究という頭脳作業をとおして、問題を発見し、その解決のための企画を立案し、実験を行い、得られた結果に今日的意義の視点から考察を加え、これらをまとめて世に問うというプロセスが、極めて日常的に行われている現実を、大学院生として学ばれたと思います。そして今や、諸君は、指導者の支援を受けることなく、自らがこの頭脳作業を遂行できるばかりでなく、後輩の研究をも指導できるだけの実力、基礎的能力が備わったことを認められたのであります。

　The 21st century—that is, your generation—is often referred to as the Age of Knowledge.

　The Age of Knowledge is, quite simply, an era of intellectual endeavor. Japan’s ability to be recognized on the world stage and to contribute to the global advancement of humanity through the creation and development of Japanese knowledge would be impossible without your active participation. You are now standing at the threshold of such an era.

　It is often said that many outstanding intellectual achievements have been based on “curiosity-driven research”—that is, research that begins with curiosity.It is of the utmost importance for intellectual work that curiosity—such as wondering “Why is that?”, finding something “strange,” or thinking it “interesting”—be aroused in your hearts when faced with the things and phenomena before you. No matter which path you choose to follow, it is essential that you continue to hold onto this simple curiosity. Please continue to retain the fresh hearts and keen sensibilities of young boys and girls forever.

　One more thing: please remember to maintain an attitude of actively welcoming feedback from others, both to ensure your work isn’t based solely on your own judgment and to ensure that it contributes positively to society.

　With the firm expectation that you yourselves will steadfastly uphold the 21st century—your era—and Japan’s era of knowledge, I conclude my address as president.

　Congratulations on your graduation.

March 23, 2005

Kochi University, a National University Corporation, President Yusuke Sagara

---