2026 Fall Entrance Ceremony

Congratulations to all of you on your admission to the distinguished Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University. I extend my heartfelt welcome to those who have come to Oita Prefecture not only from across Japan but also from countries and regions around the world.

I would also like to offer my sincere congratulations to your families on this memorable occasion as you celebrate this important milestone.

Since its founding in April 2000, Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University has been a leading force in the globalization of higher education in Japan. The university has produced many talented graduates who contribute to the international community and has built an outstanding record of achievement, including the attainment of internationally recognized accreditations.

Today, we find ourselves in an era of unprecedented change, marked by demographic shifts and rapid technological innovations, including advances in artificial intelligence. As a result, expectations continue to grow for leaders with diverse perspectives and for individuals who can tackle social challenges and create new value in society.

Against this backdrop, APU continues to pursue ambitious initiatives. In June of this year, the university concluded a comprehensive partnership agreement with Tourism Oita regarding the promotion of sustainable tourism and the development of tourism professionals in Oita Prefecture. In addition, APU entered into a cooperative agreement with Ishikawa Prefecture regarding international contributions through Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems. Through these and other initiatives, the university continues to develop as a center of knowledge that Oita proudly presents to both Japan and the world.

I would also like to express my sincere appreciation for the university's continued contributions not only to the internationalization of our prefecture but also to regional revitalization. As a university deeply engaged with the local community, APU actively promotes a variety of exchange programs for elementary, junior high, and high school students, as well as initiatives through which local residents learn about Diversity and Inclusion together with members of the APU community.

By enrolling at this globally minded yet locally rooted university, you will study on a multicultural campus where students from more than 100 countries and regions learn together. Here, you will constantly be exposed to global perspectives, build lifelong friendships, and gain a wealth of knowledge and experience. I am confident that the diverse learning opportunities and encounters you experience on this campus will foster your personal growth and equip you with the strength to shape the future.

Oita Prefecture is blessed with abundant natural beauty, a rich history and culture, and exceptional cuisine. During your time at the university, I encourage you to explore the many attractions of our prefecture and actively engage with people in communities throughout Oita. I also hope that you will come to regard Oita as your second home and serve as a bridge connecting people, communities, and Oita to the wider world.

In closing, I offer my best wishes for your future success and for the continued growth and prosperity of Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University.

SATO Kiichiro
Governor of Oita Prefecture
September 25, 2026

Congratulations on your admission to Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University.

On behalf of the citizens of Beppu, I extend my warmest welcome and heartfelt congratulations to all of you. I would also like to offer my sincere congratulations to your families and all those who have supported you on your journey to this important day.

At APU, where you will begin this new chapter of your lives, students from around the world come together to learn in an environment rich in cultural diversity and differing perspectives. Through your university experience, you will gain not only academic knowledge but also a deeper understanding of people whose backgrounds, cultures, and values differ from your own. I am confident that this will be a truly valuable opportunity to learn the importance of mutual understanding and respect.

Last year, APU celebrated the 25th anniversary of its founding. Over the past quarter century, young people from across the globe have come to Beppu, engaged with local communities, and created new value through their learning and experiences. It is now your turn to carry forward this proud legacy and help shape the next generation of APU and the future beyond it.

Beppu, the city that will serve as the setting for your university life, is blessed with abundant natural beauty, world-renowned hot springs, a rich history, and vibrant cultural traditions. As an international city known for its tourism, hot springs and culture, Beppu welcomes visitors from throughout Japan and around the world. I encourage you to venture beyond the campus, engage with residents, and experience the city with your own eyes and heart. In doing so, you will discover encounters and opportunities for learning that cannot be found in any classroom.

This year, Beppu welcomed the opening of the Beppu City Library and Komorebi Park, a new space designed to foster community interaction and learning. APU students have already begun making use of this facility, presenting the results of their studies on the theme of community development in Beppu. Bringing learning beyond the university and working together with local residents to envision the future of the city, embodying the close relationship between APU and Beppu. It is a connection that we hope to continue strengthening in the years to come.

University life will not always unfold as you expect. There may be times when you encounter difficulties or find yourselves challenged by perspectives different from your own. Yet it is precisely through such experiences that personal growth occurs. Do not be afraid of failure. Talk with your classmates, learn from one another, and embrace every opportunity to challenge yourselves.

I sincerely hope that the knowledge you gain, the friendships you build, and the time you spend in Beppu will become invaluable assets that support you throughout your lives. If, in the years ahead, you come to regard this city as your second home and feel that “Beppu has become a truly irreplaceable place in my life,” there could be no greater joy for me as Mayor.

In closing, I wish for the continued growth and success of Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University, and for each of you to thrive and develop into the leaders of tomorrow.

Once again, congratulations on your admission.

NAGANO Yasuhiro
Mayor of Beppu
September 25, 2026