Congratulatory Address

First, let me express my heartfelt congratulations on your graduation from the prestigious Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University.

I also want to congratulate your families, who showered you with love and watched you grow, and express my gratitude to President Yoneyama and all of APU's faculty and staff who provided you with steadfast guidance.

Since opening in April 2000, Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University has built up a stellar track record as a leader in the globalization of higher education in Japan, including the acquisition of several international accreditations.

This June, APU introduced the new APU Student and High School Student Future Visionary Vice President positions as a means to receive proposals from young people on the functions that they would like to see the university perform, and then use this input to identify issues and create a mid- to long-term vision for university management. Amid the increasingly difficult situation that universities throughout Japan find themselves in, APU continues to take on these kinds of ambitious initiatives 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 English workshops and global human resources development programs for high school students, industry-government-university collaborative events, and activities where students can learn about disaster prevention together with local residents.

On APU’s multicultural campus, where students from 110 countries and regions live and learn together, you, the members of the graduating class, devoted yourselves to your studies to become people who can play an active role in the international community. During your time at APU, the global spread of COVID-19 made it difficult for a time to study on campus. However, you were able to overcome this and many other adversities with your creativity and ingenuity by adapting to new learning and educational environments. I am convinced that these experiences will sustain you and give you the power you need to pioneer a new era in these times of constant change.

Now that you have graduated, I sincerely hope that you will utilize the global mindset and networks you have developed at APU to contribute greatly to the development of the Asia Pacific region in the various fields you have each chosen to enter.

Finally, I hope that you will always feel affection for Oita as your “home away from home” and a place full of fond memories. I also hope you will serve to bridge the gap between different countries, regions, and people, as well as between Oita and the world, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors while praying for the continued advancement of Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University.

SATO Kiichiro
Governor of Oita Prefecture
September 13, 2024

Hello, everybody!

Let me begin by saying congratulations to all of you who are graduating from the Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University today. On behalf of the citizens of Beppu, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of you and your families.

How do you feel on today's graduation day? I am sure that you are recalling the many memories of the difficulties you have overcome and the friendships you have nurtured together with your friends from all over the world here in Beppu.

This year, Beppu City has celebrated the 100th anniversary of its municipal organization. Some of you may have been poured a lot of hot water during the Onsen Festival held every April. Our city has always had a climate that naturally welcomes diverse people. APU was established 24 years ago here in Beppu, where many domestic and international visitors come to enjoy the hot springs, and now international students from more than 100 countries and regions have gathered here.

The hot spring steam is heated by the heat and soars high into the sky, then falls to the ground again as a blessed rain, and over the years the steam is transformed back into hot spring water. Beppu is your hometown. I hope you will be spreading your wings to the world like the hot spring steam, and your activities and thoughts about Beppu will lead to the future of our city and give us strength.

In conclusion, I sincerely wish you all the best as leaders of the next generation and hope to see you again in Beppu.

Thank you for your kind attention. Shape your world!

13 September 2024
NAGANO Yasuhiro, Mayor of Beppu City

Graduation Speech for Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University Autumn Graduation

Ladies and Gentlemen, distinguished faculty, esteemed guests, and most importantly, graduates,

It is an honor to stand before you today as the Chairperson of the Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University Alumni Association. On behalf of the entire alumni community, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the graduating class of this autumn. This moment marks the culmination of your hard work, dedication, and resilience. It is a day to celebrate, to reflect, and to look forward to the future with hope and confidence.

Today, as you don your caps and gowns, you are not just receiving a degree; you are being welcomed into a global family of APU alumni. This network is vast, diverse, and united by a common thread – the transformative experience of studying at this remarkable institution. Whether you came from near or far, you have all contributed to the rich tapestry of cultures, ideas, and perspectives that make APU unique.

As alumni, we know that the education we received at APU goes beyond textbooks and lectures. It is about the friendships we forged, the challenges we overcame, and the diverse viewpoints we embraced. These experiences have equipped us with the skills and the mindset to navigate an increasingly interconnected and complex world.

Graduates, as you embark on the next chapter of your lives, I urge you to carry forward the values and lessons you have learned here. The world needs leaders who can bridge divides, who are not afraid to innovate, and who are committed to making a positive impact. Whether you choose to pursue further studies, enter the workforce, or embark on entrepreneurial ventures, remember that you have the power to shape the future.

Your journey will not always be smooth. There will be obstacles, setbacks, and moments of doubt. But it is in these moments that your true character will shine through. Remember the resilience you demonstrated during your time at APU. Recall the times you pushed through difficulties, collaborated with others, and found creative solutions. These experiences have prepared you to face the challenges ahead with courage and determination.

As alumni, we also have a responsibility to give back to the institution that has given us so much. I encourage you to stay connected with APU, to support future students, and to contribute to the continued growth and success of our alma mater. The bonds you have formed here are not confined to these walls; they are lifelong connections that will support you throughout your journey.

In closing, let me leave you with a quote from Rumi, the great Persian poet: “As you start to walk on the way, the way appears.” Embrace the unknown, take bold steps, and trust in the journey. The world is waiting for your contributions, and I have no doubt that each of you will make a profound difference.

Congratulations once again, Class of Autumn! We are immensely proud of you. Welcome to the APU Alumni family, and may your future be filled with success, happiness, and fulfillment.

Thank you.