The AY 2022 September Undergraduate and Graduate Entrance Ceremony for new students at both Keio University's undergraduate faculties and graduate schools was held at the West School Building Hall on Mita Campus from 10:00 on Thursday, September 22.
This academic year, a total of 302 new undergraduate and Japanese Language Program students were admitted in September: 113 at the Faculty of Economics; 6 at the Faculty of Law; 5 at the Faculty of Business and Commerce; 37 at the Faculty of Policy Management; 44 at the Faculty of Environment and Information Studies; and 97 in the Japanese Language Program. 236 students were admitted to Keio University's graduate schools. 166 will enter master's programs, 53 will join doctoral programs, and 17 will enroll in a professional degree program.
The ceremony began with Vice-President Yoshimitsu Matsuura delivering the incoming class report. This was followed by President Kohei Itoh giving an address in English that emphasized the importance of Keio's spirit of "independence and self-respect" by quoting a portion of The Mission of Keio University. The president went on to congratulate the incoming students and suggested three different points for them to consider: to always challenge themselves while looking forward to the future; to become leaders that inspire others and are trusted by their communities; and to expand their perspectives by traveling abroad. After this, Professor Fukunari Kimura of the Faculty of Economics gave a congratulatory address on behalf of Keio's faculty and staff members. Hiromi Yoshii from the Graduate School of Media and Governance then delivered the matriculation address on behalf of the incoming class. The ceremony concluded with the Gakuyukai, Keio's mixed choral group, singing the "Juku-ka," one of Keio's anthems.
After the ceremony, new students could be seen enjoying the cool autumn weather while taking commemorative photos in front of the Old Library.
Participation was limited to new students. The ceremony was livestreamed to give utmost consideration to COVID-19 prevention.