2025 Fall Entrance Ceremony

Congratulations to all of you who are beginning your studies at Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University. I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely welcome all of you to Oita Prefecture, whether you came from within Japan or from another country or region.
I would also like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of your family members on this joyous occasion.
Since opening in April 2000, Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (APU) has chalked up a stellar track record as a leader in the globalization of higher education in Japan by producing numerous outstanding graduates who now contribute to international society and by acquiring several international accreditations.
In recent years, as industries have become increasingly internationalized, the human resources sought by companies are also changing. There is a growing need for multicultural managers who, in addition to specialized skills, possess an understanding of different cultures, religions, customs, and so on. Against this backdrop, this July, APU signed a comprehensive agreement of cooperation with National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University in Taiwan and launched a global talent development program for the semiconductor industry in cooperation with semiconductor companies in Kyushu.
Amid the increasingly severe situation that universities throughout Japan find themselves in, APU continues to take on ambitious initiatives like this and develop as a center of knowledge that Oita Prefecture can be proud of both at home and abroad.
In addition to promoting the internationalization of Oita Prefecture, APU has consistently contributed to regional revitalization with initiatives such as international exchange events for local elementary school students, hands-on retreat-style programs for high school students, industry-government-university collaborative events, and beach-cleaning activities.
You have enrolled in a global university that is firmly rooted in the community, and I am certain that you will make lasting friendships and learn many things as you study on APU’s multicultural campus, a place that attracts students from over 100 countries and regions and where you are always exposed to the latest global trends. Everything you learn and everyone you meet at APU will help you grow as a person and develop the ability to create the future.
As for Oita Prefecture, we are blessed with bountiful nature, a rich history and culture, and delicious food. During your time at APU, I hope you all enjoy what Oita has to offer and proactively interact with people from all parts of the prefecture. I also hope that Oita will become your second home and that, one day, you will serve as bridges between people and regions as well as between Oita and the wider world.
In closing, I would like to wish you all the best in your endeavors, and I pray for the continued prosperity of Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University.

SATO Kiichiro
Governor of Oita Prefecture
September 26, 2025

To all the new students and your family members, welcome to Beppu!
Congratulations on your admission to Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University.

To all of you who are setting out on this new chapter today, and to your families who have supported and encouraged you along the way, I extend my heartfelt congratulations on behalf of the citizens of Beppu.

Beppu, where you will be living for the next several years, is a city that has welcomed people from around the world for centuries. It is known internationally as a hot spring town, but more importantly, it has long cultivated a culture of naturally embracing differences. People from across the globe come here, interact with each other, and work together to create new value. This inclusiveness is both an attractive feature and a strength of Beppu.

APU, too, is a place that symbolizes diversity and international mindedness. Studying alongside your peers from more than one hundred countries and regions is sure to greatly broaden your horizons and enrich your life. At times, you may feel bewildered by the different cultures and values. Yet it is precisely in facing and overcoming those differences that you will learn invaluable lessons. Here in Beppu, you have an environment where you can continue to tackle challenges like these with peace of mind. Beppu is a city that warmly welcomes those who are willing to try new things.

The local people welcome your presence with open arms; they will watch over and support you as you work hard and try new things every day. By engaging in casual conversations around town or by taking part in local festivals and events, you will find countless opportunities for learning and connection. Each of these encounters will become invaluable experiences and a source of strength that will support you throughout your life.

Learning does not only happen in the classroom; it also happens in your daily lives and interactions.
I encourage you to actively engage with the community and experience the people and culture of Beppu. The local community treasures its interactions with you and looks forward to building relationships that foster mutual learning.

May Beppu become your home away from home!
I hope that the time you spend in Beppu will be a lasting memory that you cherish for a lifetime.
Nothing would give me greater joy as Mayor than to know that Beppu has come to have a special place in your heart.

Once again, congratulations on your admission to APU.
I sincerely hope that you will all grow and flourish here in Beppu.

NAGANO Yasuhiro
Mayor of Beppu
September 26, 2025