The Mita-kai Is Closer Than You Think: Connecting Keio Generations Across Time

"The Mita-kai is a gathering of alumni for interaction and friendship."

Mr. Oshita begins his explanation with these words.

The origins of the Mita-kai date back to the Meiji era. Since then, a culture of alumni gathering to support Keio University while mutually inspiring one another has naturally flourished. The Keio Rengo Mita-Kai was established as an organization to bring together the various Mita-kai of all sizes formed around extracurricular clubs, seminars, or regions. As a general incorporated foundation, it is an organization independent of the university, which is a major characteristic that distinguishes it from alumni associations at other universities.

On the other hand, it is not entirely unrelated to the university. The role of connecting the two is played by the Office of Alumni Affairs, an administrative department of Keio University responsible for matters concerning Keio University alumni in general. It primarily handles alumni registry management and advisory roles, maintaining a strong bond with the Keio Rengo Mita-Kai.

The "vertical and horizontal connections" often cited as a strength of Keio University are supported by these two organizations.

Keio University invites Keio University alumni in their 25th year after graduation to the Commencement Ceremony, and those in their 50th year to the Entrance Ceremony.

Furthermore, at the annual Keio Rengo Mita-Kai General Meeting, alumni in their 30th year after graduation take the lead, with those in their 10th, 20th, 30th, and 40th years collaborating to manage the event. This system of passing down roles by graduation year creates the intergenerational connections unique to the Mita-kai.

However, both men noted, "The participation rate among young people is low..."

The "Reunion for Keio Alumni 5 Years After Graduation" was launched to address this issue. Held for the first time in 2025 for the generation that could not have an in-person graduation ceremony due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event attracted approximately 1,000 participants, far exceeding initial expectations.

Previously, the 10th year after graduation—when it is one's turn to help host the Keio Rengo Mita-Kai General Meeting—was the first opportunity for a reunion. However, it is also true that work and life events can make participation difficult at that stage.

"Instead of waiting 10 years after graduation, we want them to come back once in their 5th year."

The opportunity to see where one's peers are active five years after graduation is very appealing. Due to the success of the first event, it is planned to be held annually. This new initiative is expected to serve as a catalyst for the younger generation to reconnect with their alma mater.

"You can't understand the appeal unless you participate."

This is a phrase Mr. Oshita repeated many times during the interview.

Even current Keio students can attend the Keio Rengo Mita-Kai General Meeting. Every year on the third Sunday of October, the Hiyoshi Campus hosts a variety of events that everyone can enjoy, including a commemorative ceremony, lectures, concerts, and sports events. It is also a tradition for the event executive committee to invite Keio University alumni in their 50th year after graduation to this ceremony as a token of gratitude for their years of contribution. Additionally, the event features food stalls and corporate booths involving alumni, drawing a large crowd of Keio University alumni.

"There are various shops related to alumni in the square in front of Building 4 and the Commemorative Hall Square, so I want Keio students to enjoy eating and drinking there. I hope it serves as a catalyst for them to visit the Mita-kai and the Keio Rengo Mita-Kai General Meeting again after they graduate."

Once you enter the workforce, regional Mita-kai will welcome you at your new job location. Even in an unfamiliar place, there are seniors who can teach you about daily life. Whether at different companies or in the same industry, they generously share their experience and knowledge.

"They help you out as a senior from Keio University, transcending their position as a competitor."

Mr. Oshita's words, spoken with a smile, conveyed the characteristic Keio University culture of "wanting to help for the sake of one's juniors." The appeal of the Mita-kai cannot be understood through its name or history alone. It is something that can only be truly felt by actually interacting with people and experiencing their warmth.

Of course, that network cannot be gained just by waiting.

"First, participate." "First, try reaching out."

That first step leads to new encounters.

Yukichi Fukuzawa left behind the words, "Human interaction (jinkan kosai) creates society."

I felt that the Mita-kai is the organization that best embodies those words. The Mita-kai is the very network where people draw in other people, and those connections are passed down to the next generation.

"I want young people to try participating in the Mita-kai first."

Even Keio students who feel the Mita-kai is a distant presence and hesitate to approach it will surely meet people who will warmly welcome them and kindly help them as juniors if they just take a step forward. I felt this strongly from the way Mr. Oshita and Mr. Sasaki interacted with me with smiles throughout the interview.

And these warm connections are not just for alumni. For prospective students aiming for Keio University, once they enroll, a lifelong treasure of human connections awaits them, continuing through their departments, seminars, clubs, and eventually the Mita-kai after graduation.

If you dive in, you will find new encounters that enrich your life and the warm network unique to Keio University spreading out before you.

*Note: The information in this article is current as of 2026.