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Congratulations to everyone here today who has earned a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree. Every day you devoted yourself to your studies and research, and you have, at last, arrived at this monumental day in your lives. I also want to acknowledge and celebrate the family and friends who have supported you along your journeys.

You have studied and conducted research with the best faculty members Keio has to offer. You have made lifelong friends and colleagues at Keio. You will fully understand the standard of excellence here at Keio once you have left the university, especially when you are surrounded by the best and brightest entrepreneurs and researchers around the globe. Just as stated in the "Mission of Keio University," every single one of you will contribute as leaders who will serve society for the betterment of the world.

From this point forward, you will continue to build upon the strong foundations you set at Keio. Here you learned the importance of being true to yourself, of respecting human dignity, of caring for others and working collaboratively, of seeking the meaning of life, and of dedicating yourself to the advancement of society. Yet, the pursuit of this mission is a lifelong journey of challenge and learning. And for such a journey, the next ten years of your life will be especially crucial.

The coming decade will be a time to deepen your aspirations and cultivate a strong sense of purpose through further study, research, and experience. Many people mistakenly believe that they can do this later in their careers, but it is far more difficult as one grows older. Just as it is easier to master a new language, sport, or musical instrument when young, so too is it easier to nurture your aspirations and sense of purpose during this time. In a way, you are like batteries: if you do not charge yourselves fully over the next few years, you may find yourselves running on “low battery mode.” In this mode, you will get caught up in daily work and routine, with little energy left to serve society or take on more ambitious challenges.

To those receiving doctoral degrees: the next ten years will be especially rewarding. You already know how to keep moving forward, and you will make significant contributions in whichever fields you pursue. Continue to challenge yourselves. Choose environments where you can meet the greatest minds in the world. You will be the luminaries of your generation.

To those receiving master’s or professional degrees: you have laid strong foundations. The next steps will not only be a time for growth but also for dreaming bigger. You may even ask yourselves whether one degree is enough. Many of the world’s most successful leaders have pursued multiple master’s or doctoral degrees, becoming multifaceted figures with the skills, perspectives, and resilience to adapt, innovate, and lead effectively in complex global contexts.

And to those receiving bachelor’s degrees: you have already achieved much at Keio and are well on your way, but the next ten years will be particularly decisive. Your lifelong learning has only just begun. If you choose to work at an office job, always ask yourselves whether you are charging or depleting your metaphorical batteries. If you feel empty, seek broader horizons. Consider going abroad to widen your perspective, or returning to graduate school to pursue master’s, professional, or doctoral studies. Do not settle for less. Many of you will live beyond 90 years, so there is no need to rush. Take the time to dream boldly and prepare well.

So, set your sights higher. Keep learning and growing. Act globally. And always stay connected with Keio.

Congratulations!