Kyushu University Opening Ceremony Fall 2026

On October 2, 2026, the Kyushu University Opening Ceremony Fall 2026 was held at Shiiki Hall on the Ito Campus, welcoming 427 students: 45 undergraduate students, 182 master's students, 146 doctoral students, and 54 students enrolled in the Japan in Today's World Program (JTW)^*1 and the Japanese Language and Culture Course (JLCC). ^*2

At the beginning of the ceremony, President Akashi delivered an address, reflecting on the history of Kyushu University and its diverse academic environment. He emphasized that, in an era of rapidly advancing artificial intelligence, the ability to ask meaningful questions, connect different kinds of knowledge, and imagine possibilities that do not yet exist is becoming increasingly important. He also encouraged new students to deepen their expertise in their chosen fields, look beyond those fields, connect with people from different disciplines and countries, pursue what genuinely interests them, and embrace new challenges.

Following this, two student representatives gave speeches: Yousef Hussein from the Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Engineering Sciences and Emily Elinam Attipoe from the JLCC. In their speeches, they shared their aspirations and goals for their studies and student life at Kyushu University, emphasizing the importance of embracing challenges and engaging with people from diverse backgrounds. The ceremony concluded in a celebratory atmosphere that reflected the university's diverse international community.

(*1) Japan in Today's World Program (JTW): A short-term study abroad program for undergraduate international students, lasting either one semester or 10 months. Courses on contemporary Japanese society, economy, and culture are offered in English.

(*2) Japanese Language and Culture Course (JLCC): An 11-month course for undergraduate students majoring in Japanese language or Japanese studies at universities in Asia, Europe, or the United States. This course is designed to improve their Japanese language skills and deepen their understanding of Japanese society and culture.