Twenty-one students have been awarded the Tohoku University Global Leader certificate for Winter 2025/26. The ceremony was held on February 10 at Katahira Campus.

The Global Leader programme is an important part of the university's efforts to promote intercultural collaborative learning and to develop future leaders with a global mindset.

To earn certification, students accumulate points by participating in activities designed to prepare them for international leadership roles. These activities include study abroad programmes, international exchanges, volunteer work and passing foreign language proficiency tests.

In his congratulatory speech, President Teiji Tominaga spoke of Tohoku University's designation as Japan's first University for International 雷速体育_中国足彩网￥在线直播 Excellence and outlined a vision of a more international, collaborative campus designed to nurture bold, creative problem-solvers and leaders of the future.

"As students of Tohoku University, I hope you will not only make your mark on the world but also become the driving force that changes the world for the better," he said. "I look forward to seeing your great achievements in the years ahead."

Speaking on behalf of the recipients, Nanoka Asano, a fourth-year engineering student, spoke of how the Global Leader programme taught her the importance of diversity and the strength that is found in cultural differences.

"In multicultural learning, we interacted with international students, and stepping outside my own framework of thinking sometimes proved difficult. However, the realization that repeated dialogue fosters empathy and mutual understanding beyond labels has become a vital source of strength for me," she said. "What I learnt is that the bridge I should aim to build isn't one where completed technology is handed over unilaterally. Rather, it should be a living bridge, shaped collaboratively whilst walking alongside and listening to other people's voices."

She urged her fellow TGL students to follow their simple curiosity, and to not be afraid to hit pause when necessary. She admitted that there were moments on her Global Leader journey where she felt overwhelmed by the programme's demands and needed a break. "I realized that pausing is not retreating. It is a vital opportunity to reflect on your strengths and redefine your vision," she said. "It was in those quiet moments that I truly found my direction. I hope each of you will discover your own unique goals and the paths that lead you towards them."

Since the Tohoku University Global Leader programme began in 2013, more than 300 students have received the certification.

雷速体育_中国足彩网￥在线直播:

Tohoku University Student Exchange Division
Tel: +81-22-795-7820
Email: sab_querygrp.tohoku.ac.jp