Congratulations to all of you who have enrolled in the Graduate School of Yamagata University. The faculty and staff of Yamagata University, along with all current students who will be your seniors, extend our warmest welcome to you.

I think each of you entered graduate school with the ambitious goal of either pursuing your undergraduate research theme to its fullest to uncover new, as-yet-unexplored insights, or tackling a largely unexplored topic from the ground up to solve humanity's challenges through your own efforts. I studied genetics in university and, like many of you, went on to graduate school, but I struggled for a long time as my research didn't progress as I had hoped. However, through repeated discussions with my advisor and researchers from various fields to resolve the issues, I was able to achieve a great sense of accomplishment.

You may also encounter situations in your research where the data doesn't turn out as expected, or you struggle with experimental results that contradict your hypothesis. At that time, actively engage in discussions with various people and try to view the situation and its outcomes from different perspectives. Then, what seemed like a failure might become an opportunity for new discoveries. Graduate school education is not only about acquiring specialized knowledge and skills, but also a place to challenge problems through multifaceted approaches and learn and master various methodologies.

Not only in research, but when cornered, people tend to lose perspective. When you encounter difficulties in your studies or daily life, please don't keep them to yourself. Talk to your friends or consult us faculty and staff. When you find it difficult to talk to someone you know, please make use of the counseling services and counselors available at each campus. We want to support you not only in your studies but also in your emotional well-being.

Today, our world has transformed into a highly advanced, information-rich civilization, driven by rapid scientific and technological progress, including advances in AI, and deepening understanding of Earth's history and human evolution. This allows us to lead extremely convenient and culturally rich lives. On the other hand, the challenges facing humanity are increasing, and humanity is undertaking various initiatives to address them. Your research will contribute to the advancement of civilization and the resolution of social challenges. We researchers, including all of you, must contribute to the realization of a better society through our research. We greatly anticipate that the new knowledge you bring will help resolve as many social issues as possible.

If you have a passion for implementing your research in society, connecting it more directly to solving problems, or turning your research findings into services or products, consider entrepreneurship as an option. I think new discoveries, companions, and worlds you've never seen before await you there.

Graduate school life passes in the blink of an eye, so please make sure to value not only your studies, but also the time spent with your peers and pursuing your own interests. I believe that friends who have shared the same experiences will become strong allies in life going forward. Time spent passionately pursuing what you love enriches your life. Take on new challenges and make your life colorful.

I would like to conclude my welcome speech by expressing my sincere hope that you will all have a fulfilling student life at Yamagata University, gain a wide range of experiences, and grow into talented individuals who can spread their wings and fly out into the world.

President Hidetoshi Tamate, October 1 2025

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