To all those receiving degrees today, congratulations on your graduation and completion. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all graduates and completers.

Many of you have been studying at Yamagata University amidst the great social turmoil caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, with experiences quite different from those of previous students. In particular, those of you completing the Master’s program have faced extraordinary challenges: you were required to take online classes during your undergraduate years and then transitioned to in-person classes in graduate school. The effort you have put into achieving results within the short span of two years has been truly exceptional.

Similarly, those of you completing the Doctoral program have faced a daunting task due to the pandemic, which disrupted the usual schedules for manuscript submissions and international conference presentations. I imagine it was difficult to devise plans to meet the graduation requirements under these circumstances.

Despite these challenges, you have worked diligently, produced results, refined your research, and today you have received your degrees. I offer my sincere respect and admiration for your perseverance and accomplishments.

As the President of Yamagata University, I am very pleased that you chose our institution as your place of study and have successfully achieved your goals.

The diplomas conferred by the university are proof of the knowledge, skills, and research achievements you have acquired in your respective fields. I hope you will confidently take the next step forward, fully aware of this accomplishment. Today, you embark on a new chapter, moving on to the next stage of your lives. From now on, it may become challenging to secure your own time as you did during your student years. In a rapidly changing society, you might sometimes be expected to deliver results within a short timeframe, which could lead to periods of uncertainty and frustration. In such times, I encourage you to remember the approaches you used to achieve the results that led to earning your degree. Even if circumstances are different, the approaches you employed may still be applicable. While the university is a place to master your field of expertise, you have acquired various strategies to achieve that mastery. Instead of rushing to produce results, take a step back and apply the diverse approaches you learned at university from different perspectives. I am confident that you will achieve good results

In the professional world, time constraints often take priority, and there may be instances when you cannot resolve issues within the deadline. During such times, don’t hesitate to reach out to Yamagata University. We will gladly work with you to find the best solutions and offer sound advice. Rest assured, Yamagata University will always be here to support you.

As we conclude today’s ceremony, I have one final request: please remember that your degrees are not solely the result of your individual effort. Your academic milestones have been achieved not only through your dedication but also with the enduring support of friends, family, and mentors. Let a sense of gratitude for these many connections accompany you on your journey ahead.

Moreover, amidst the challenging economic conditions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine, significant donations from alumni, and local community members have supported your studies. I ask that you remember the deep support you have received throughout your student life.

We are entering an era of unprecedented unpredictability, and the pace of change will likely accelerate. We will face an increasing number of challenges. I sincerely hope that you will apply the extensive knowledge gained at this university to boldly confront and solve various issues. I offer my heartfelt congratulations as you embark on the next stage of your lives. Congratulations once again on your achievements today.

                                                                                                               September 20, 2024
                                                                                         President of Yamagata University,
                                                                                                                  TAMATE Hidetoshi