Commencement Address for the 2012 Academic Year, Kochi University Graduate School
I believe the knowledge and skills you acquired during your graduate studies far surpass those gained at the undergraduate level. The diplomas you have received today serve as proof that you have successfully climbed the extremely high and steep mountain of uncovering the unknown and returned safely. They also serve as proof that you have acquired the qualifications and abilities to conduct independent research based on your own ideas and capabilities, free from the guidance of your advisors.I want you to take pride in this achievement and keep in mind that not only your families and the Kochi University community, but the people of Japan as a whole, have placed great and passionate expectations on your abilities.
To those of you who will continue your research, while the freedom of research must be guaranteed, please do not forget that the responsibility for the impact your research findings have on society lies with the researchers themselves.To date, the advancement of science has brought countless and immense benefits to humanity; however, there are also many instances where it has denied life and led the world toward collapse. In that sense, I believe that research without any constraints is impossible. This is precisely the duty and conscience entrusted to scientists.
To all of you who are about to enter society: society has high expectations for the exceptional intellectual capabilities you have cultivated and mastered at this prestigious institution. Specifically, these expectations center on your practical ability to execute the so-called PDCA cycle—identifying problems, formulating hypotheses, planning solutions, and receiving recognition for your achievements from those around you.
In closing, while I firmly believe that a boundlessly bright future lies ahead for all of you, there has never been a time when the need for capable talent has been more urgent than now. I conclude my address as President with the hope that, never forgetting your pride as graduates of this prestigious institution, your sense of self-reflection, and your hope, you will strive toward your goals in your respective fields.
March 22, 2013
Kochi University (National University Corporation)
President Hiroshi Wakiguchi