To everyone celebrating their graduation or completion of studies today, congratulations!
I would also like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to your family.
Especially given that the past few years have been marked by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, I imagine this moment is particularly poignant for you all. With a mix of emotions in your hearts, you are setting sail today toward your respective new horizons—whether that be starting a career or pursuing higher education. There is no doubt that you, the younger generation, will be the captains of the coming era.
Many of you likely feel that the storm of the COVID-19 pandemic has pointed our lifestyles in the direction of major transformation. In particular, when faced with such a crisis, it became clear that events we would never have imagined under normal circumstances were unfolding one after another. On the other hand, it revealed that our previous way of life was riddled with strain and waste, presenting an opportunity to address these issues. Above all, the most significant reality we witnessed was that humans are, after all, “living beings.”In the face of a disaster like this one, it is no easy task for “human beings” to live within the “social ecosystem” they have built for themselves, and the situation has escalated into a catastrophe that has swept across the globe.
What have you taken away from this experience? I’d like you to take a moment to reflect on both the positive and negative aspects. I firmly believe that no one has gone through their student life up to graduation or completion without gaining anything. If you feel you can’t find anything, I think you’re simply overlooking it. Please take the time to search for it earnestly. I’m sure it will be of great benefit to you in your future lives.
In any case, the struggles you’ve endured while researching and writing your undergraduate thesis or master’s or doctoral dissertation will surely become a priceless treasure in your life. As you set sail into the wider world, the special recipe known as “experience” that you’ve gained here will also prove invaluable in countless situations.
I realize it’s not easy to imagine what the future will look like five, ten, twenty, or thirty years from now, but I sincerely hope that each of you will become a key player who continues to envision the future of the Earth’s ecosystem while steadily building a solid foundation.
Moving forward, during the fourth phase of its medium-term goals, which begins in April 2022, Kochi University aims to continue evolving into a university that “supports the region and transforms it.” Of course, while sharing the experiences and achievements gained locally with the world, we also aim to become known throughout Japan and around the globe as “the university that defines the region.” That is precisely the vision of Kochi University as a “Super Regional University.” Even after you leave the university, we hope you will continue to support us.
In 2024, Kochi University will celebrate its 75th anniversary. Furthermore, the former Kochi High School, the predecessor of Kochi University, marks its 100th anniversary this year. As part of the commemorative activities, preparations are currently underway to establish an alumni association. We hope to welcome everyone who has been involved with Kochi University in any capacity to join the alumni association as supporters of the university. Among them, we believe that our graduates and degree recipients will play a central role in supporting the university and expanding our network.Even after leaving the university, we sincerely hope you will continue to be Kochi University’s greatest supporters.
Once this ceremony is over today, take a deep breath, open your eyes wide, and take a step forward into the future.
Let me say it again: Congratulations on your graduation and completion of your studies.
March 23, 2022
Katsutoshi Sakurai, President, Kochi University