Tohoku University held its Fall 2024 Commencement Ceremony at Kawauchi Hagi Hall on September 25. The event celebrated the achievements of 371 students, with 77 receiving their undergraduate degrees, 147 their master's and 147 their doctoral degrees. International students made up more than half of the graduating class.
Family and friends were on hand to celebrate the occasion in person, and there was a live broadcast of the ceremony for those unable to attend.
In his speech, Tohoku University President Teiji Tominaga congratulated the students for reaching this important milestone, adding that their experiences at the university will hold them in good stead as they begin the next chapter of their lives.
"Excellence in academia goes beyond just publishing research; it includes practical applications, helping communities through scientific discussions and nurturing the next generation," he said. "Outstanding education means you are ready to take on responsibilities that not everyone can handle, using the knowledge, experience and skills you gained at Tohoku University."
He added that in a constantly changing world full of uncertainties and challenges, Tohoku University will continue to adapt, and he invited all students and alumni to work together to create a better future. "We aim to redefine the concept of a research university, not as an isolated ivory tower of academia, but as an institution driven by research excellence, serving as a platform for innovation, creating social value and addressing global issues. Our commitment is to fully engage with society to meet the evolving needs of our world."
President Tominaga then encouraged everyone to stay in touch through the university's Alumni Association. "Graduation is not the end of your journey with us, but the beginning of a new partnership. Congratulations on your graduation, best wishes for your future and I hope we meet again."
Valedictorian Masahito Kumagai from the Graduate School of Information Sciences, gave a speech on behalf of the students, thanking everyone at the university for their support over the years.
"Today, as I receive my doctoral degree and take the first step toward a new journey, I am deeply grateful for the guidance of my academic advisors and many other professors. I would also like to thank my colleagues who pushed me and each other to excel, all the staff who supported us and my family who offered encouragement from afar."
Kumagai also spoke of the personal growth and confidence that he gained from his time at the university. "Here, I learnt to identify societal challenges and developed the ability to think through the solutions. These are skills that laid the foundation for my research career."
He concluded by saying that although members of the graduating class will soon be going their separate ways, they are bound by a common determination to "lead innovation and transformation, carve out paths amidst the chaotic global situation and contribute to the future of human society. We fully recognize that this is our responsibility as graduates of Tohoku University."
The ceremony ended with the singing of the school song "Aoba Moyuru Kono Michinoku."
Despite the rain, the students gathered outdoors after the ceremony for pictures with their families and each other.
The Public Relations Department joins the president and the entire Tohoku University family in saying congratulations and good luck to the graduating class of 2024.
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Tohoku University International PR Section
Tel: +81-22-217-4816
Email: public_relationsgrp.tohoku.ac.jp