Tokyo Tech News

Develop competence to become future pioneers, urges President - Fall Entrance Ceremony 2015

RSS

Published: October 19, 2015

The Fall Entrance Ceremony for new graduate students of Tokyo Institute of Technology was held on October 1, 2015. A total of 353 new students from 41 countries joined the Institute. Of the 194 students starting master's degree programs, 9 joined professional master's degree programs, while 159 students began their doctoral degree programs.

Graduate Schools' Fall Entrance Ceremony 2015

In his opening address, Tokyo Tech President Yoshinao Mishima encouraged new students to broaden their vision through learning and understanding of different cultures, vowing that the Institute would do its part in equipping students with the capacity to integrate diverse perspectives and a creative competence to become future pioneers. "All of you will take advantage of" the new education system starting in April 2016, Mishima pointed out, inviting students to move towards success together with Tokyo Tech.

President Yoshinao Mishima's opening address
President Yoshinao Mishima's opening address

Dean Norihiro Nakai speaking of diversity

Dean Norihiro Nakai speaking of diversity

After the introduction of executives, vice presidents, deans, and other special guests, Dean Norihiro Nakai of the Graduate School of Decision Science and Technology greeted the new students. Nakai highlighted that a university — a place which "allows a variety of things, people, and thoughts to exist without conflicting each other" — is founded on diversity, and urged students to take advantage of this at Tokyo Tech. He also stressed that a diverse way of thinking would "nourish you for the rest of your life."

Mr. Nobuo Seki congratulating new students

Mr. Nobuo Seki congratulating new students

Tokyo Tech Alumni Association Director Nobuo Seki (Class of 1970) congratulated the audience, assuring international students that they would soon get used to and love life in Japan, their new home. He promised that the alumni association would do its best in providing support to students on their way to becoming leaders.

To complete the ceremony, Taeko Suehiro, representative of the new graduate students, expressed gratitude and excitement about starting a new academic life. She pointed out that, since the Great East Japan Earthquake and the subsequent events in Fukushima in 2011, society has been eager for science and technology to be undertaken in a more sustainable way. Globally, climate change, depletion of resources and energy, and food and water shortages persist, and "we believe science and technology can contribute to solving these issues." Finally, Suehiro asserted that the new students would exert their best efforts for humanity while maintaining humbleness, honesty, and integrity.

Student rep Taeko Suehiro giving a speech
Student rep Taeko Suehiro giving a speech

To all new students: Welcome to Tokyo Tech!

RSS