2024 Fall Entrance Ceremony

On September 19th, The University of Hyogo held the 2024 Fall Entrance Ceremony for students in the Global Business Course (GBC) of the School of Economics and Management, and in the Department of Global Business (GB) of the Graduate School of Social Sciences.

This year, 42 international students from 14 countries, including Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, Gambia, and Romania, were welcomed to the GBC. Also, ten students from 6 countries, including Bangladesh, Madagascar, and Pakistan, were admitted to the GB. The entrance ceremony was held in person and was streamed LIVE online.

In his ceremonial speech, President Makoto Kosaka addressed the new students : “We are facing great crises in an age of uncertainty and unpredictability. Digital transformation affects all facets of our lives. Wars and terrorism cause enormous casualties and lead to displacement. Climate change poses a threat to our planet. These crises are caused by humans. Therefore, we can and must do everything possible to master these challenges.”

He continued his speech: “We provide education that enables students to acquire both critical and creative thinking. We hope you will develop a global multifaceted mindset and entrepreneurial spirit to pioneer a fair new world. Finally, we would like to touch on student life. The University regards you as adults and expects you to take responsibility for your actions. You are asked to observe the norms of society and exercise good self-discipline. Please make good friends who will allow you to work hard together and become one for life during your vibrant student life. Please also remember with gratitude that your education has been financially supported by many generous corporations, whose names are displayed on the plaque at the entrance of Global House.”

Khayra Elvina Maheswari from Indonesia delivered a student pledge to represent the new GBC students. During her speech, she emphasized the following: “Having been raised in Indonesia, I have only ventured beyond its borders once in my life. The fact that I am now standing on the grounds of the University of Hyogo feels like a dream come true. The moment I learned about the Global Business Course, I was captivated by the idea of studying in Japan, a country that has fascinated me since I was an elementary school student. Through research endeavors to study abroad, I discovered that the GBC has a fully integrated international program with international students worldwide. For someone who hasn't been out of their home country much, this is a perfect opportunity to get to know people from all around the world. The Global Business Course also offers various project and research seminars as well as many programs to learn Japanese culture. All of these facts motivated me to choose the Global Business Course as my desired destination to study. Lastly, I would like to thank everyone who has helped me until I am able to stand on today’s prestigious stage and enroll in the GBC family. I extend my sincerest gratitude to my former teachers, my family, and my friends in Indonesia. I will do my best to achieve academic excellence and develop my communication and intercultural skills. ”

Rehan Afzal from Pakistan also delivered a student pledge to represent the new GB students. During her speech, he emphasized the following: “The diverse community, excellent global business program, and University’s reputation are captivating my attention, and I am eager to undertake my studies at this university. On top of that, Japan is ranked in the top ten countries across the globe with respect to the best education system, which is also one of the reasons for my spirit and motivation. I am sure fellow students may also have the same excitement at their own levels. I am eager to join the University’s vibrant community and make significant and positive changes.”

Bat Amgalan Batbaat, the representative of the current international GBC students, gave the welcome speech. “As a second-year student, I understand the mixed sense of excitement and apprehension you might feel right now. To the truth, I once stood where you are today, eager to explore yet unsure of what to expect. But let me assure you, Japan has so much to offer, from its rich history and traditions to its innovative spirit and technological advancements. It is a place where you can learn, grow, and thrive inside and outside the classroom. Adapting to a new country and culture could be challenging, but you are not alone. We are all here to support you, your professors, the university staff, and your fellow students, including myself.”

Au Yong Ke Ying, the representative of the current international GB students, also gave the welcome speech. “This path you are about to embark on will not be easy, and you will face multiple challenges, but the road ahead will bear fruitful outcomes you will not regret. Each challenge you will face will certainly lead to a learning experience. Residing in a new country could be overwhelming, but it will also introduce you to a new culture, experience, and connections that will enrich your life. Japan has much to offer for international students, from its academic excellence to modern technology. Therefore, I hope that you will take this precious opportunity to immerse yourself in learning more about Japan. From today, you will meet new people of different backgrounds, traditions and cultures. Please interact with them and exchange life experiences with them. Please listen to their stories, and I promise you that you will open your eyes and see things from a new perspective.”

Congratulations to all international students on your enrollment. We hope you will deepen your studies at our university, and through various experiences and exchanges, you will grow even more and spread your wings to the world.

<GBC International Students’ Home countries and Numbers>

<GB International Students’ Home countries and Numbers>