Fall 2025 Degree Conferral Ceremony
On this day, when a crisp autumn breeze sways the pampas grass, 20 students--10 undergraduates and 10 graduate students--open new doors and embark on a journey into a world full of hope.
On behalf of the university, I extend heartfelt congratulations and respect to all graduates and degree recipients who persevered through the prolonged constraints of the COVID-19 pandemic, faced many trials, and maintained a sincere and dedicated academic life to reach this joyous day.
Throughout your university years, as you strived to seek truth and create a prosperous future, you were never alone. Now, please share the sense of relief and joy you feel today with your family and loved ones, who have eagerly awaited your growth, and express your gratitude to them.
We are honoured to have the presidents of the Parents Association and the Alumni Association attending today's ceremony as distinguished guests. We extend our deep gratitude for taking time out of your busy schedules to join us.
We are now navigating and racing through an era of uncertainty and unpredictability. The revolution in AI and ICT is transforming every aspect of life. Wars and terrorism are creating vast numbers of victims and large-scale displacement. And the planet is boiling.
Yet, nothing remains unchanged forever. I hope that each of you will deepen the comprehensive knowledge and experiential wisdom cultivated at this university, sharpen your critical and creative thinking, and boldly respond to change while fully demonstrating your abilities in your respective fields, keeping close to your hearts the SDGs' principle "Leave No One Behind". With your flexible sensibilities and imagination as professionals of knowledge, please pioneer a borderless society where diverse cultures coexist.
There is a date and time we will never forget: January 17, 1995, at 5:46 a.m. This year marks 30 years since the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. We have learned the lessons of preparing for disasters and anticipating the unexpected. Encouraged by the many warm hands extended to us from within Japan and abroad, we have worked toward creative reconstruction--"Build Back Better". Disasters do not choose their victims. We must not leave the people of the affected areas behind. To those who did not experience the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, please remember that you, too, have a role in protecting the lives and hearts of those who will live in the future.
The bond between the University of Hyogo―now in its 21st year since integration―and all of you does not end with graduation or completion of studies. The university is a hometown you can always return to. We will continue to support you as you pursue lifelong learning in this era of 100-year lifespans, providing opportunities for relearning and reskilling. Whenever you have time, please stop by your alma mater. We look forward to hearing about your successes and challenges.
Finally, let me share this: Do not be swayed by superficial words that are difficult to verify and lack objectivity. Go beyond the relativism of values and spare no effort in striving to approach the truth. Thoughtless, self-righteous remarks can wound people's hearts. Always remember to take responsibility for your words, for words carry responsibility. And in times of pain and sorrow, have the courage to rely on others.
Believing that every one of you has vibrant and fulfilling days ahead, I offer heartfelt greetings and words of farewell at the start of this new season.
Wishing you a wonderful journey ahead.
Congratulations!
Makoto KOSAKA
President, University of Hyogo
September 25th, 2025