2024 Fall Entrance Ceremony speech by Yujiro Tanaka, president and CAO
Science Tokyo President and Chief Academic Officer (CAO) Yujiro Tanaka
October 23, 2024
On behalf of the faculty and staff of Institute of Science Tokyo, I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to all of you who have been admitted to the undergraduate and graduate programs today. To you, and to the parents and guardians, thank you very much for attending our inaugural entrance ceremony. It is a great honor for me to share this historic moment with each and every one of you.
Science Tokyo was born from the merger of two prestigious academic institutions: Tokyo Medical and Dental University and Tokyo Institute of Technology. While inheriting the long history and traditions of both schools, this new university is also taking a bold step into the future. We aim for greater innovation and progress, building on the foundation of the knowledge and experience we have gained so far.
The mission of Science Tokyo is “advancing science and human wellbeing to create value for and with society.” Some of you may be focused on advancing science. Some of you may be focused on advancing human wellbeing. Whatever your individual goals, together we can generate new knowledge and enrich people’s lives. However, we cannot achieve anything significant without society’s support. The university is not separate from society but part of it, and to realize a better future we must work side by side with the public, supporting them as they support us.
New students, we hope you will embrace this important mission.
We hope you will embrace Science Tokyo’s three core values as well.
First, challenge yourself to “explore and freely integrate knowledge and technology, without constraint of preconceptions.” By transcending academic boundaries and connecting knowledge from different fields, new discoveries and inventions will emerge.
Second, “celebrate individuality to foster a rich culture of creation.”
Each of you, with your diverse backgrounds, possesses unique perspectives and talents. Respect each other, inspire each other, and build a creative environment.
Finally, “continuously challenge existing assumptions and approaches to enable bold reinvention.” Don’t be satisfied with the status quo. Question the way things are, propose new ideas, and have the courage to implement them. Even when faced with difficulties, do not fear challenges; believe in yourself and move forward.
Science Tokyo was born this month. Our future depends on our faculty and staff, on the public we support, and on you. Through your learning and experiences here, maximize your potential and grow into individuals who can contribute to the world. We eagerly anticipate your coming achievements. Let us orchestrate a wonderful future together with society.
On behalf of all the faculty and staff, I would again like to extend my congratulations and best wishes to all of you.
Thank you.
Contact
Administrative Affairs Group, Administrative Affairs Division
Email adm.aff@adm.isct.ac.jp