On Wednesday, April 1, from 2:00 p.m., the AY 2026 Undergraduate Entrance Ceremony was held at Hiyoshi Commemorative Hall, welcoming a total of 7,051 new students across 10 faculties, including those in the Japanese Language Program. The ceremony was held jointly for all faculties, bringing together the new students and invited Keio University alumni celebrating the 50th anniversary of their graduation.
The ceremony began with a report on academic affairs by Vice-President Yoshimitsu Matsuura, followed by an address from President Kohei Itoh, who introduced "The Mission of Keio University." President Itoh stated that in order to lead the world in the right direction, it is important to strive in studies and extracurricular activities while encouraging one another, and to continue taking on challenges that transcend existing frameworks with high aspirations and curiosity. He also spoke of the importance of maintaining an attitude of tackling "questions without a single correct answer" by valuing collaborative human endeavors even while utilizing cutting-edge AI. He concluded with a message of encouragement, expressing his hope that the students would enjoy their freedom while becoming role models for society and individuals who receive support from many people.
This was followed by a congratulatory address from Professor Satoshi Nakanishi of the Faculty of Economics representing the faculty and staff, and an incoming student's address by Mr. Kotaro Kazami of the School of Medicine. At the end of the ceremony, there was a presentation of a donation catalog and a greeting from the 1976 Mita-kai.
After the ceremony, a Reunion for Keio Alumni was held for those celebrating 50 years since graduation, where many Keio University alumni (graduates) were seen catching up with old friends. As the new students devote themselves to their studies and participate in extracurricular activities during their time at the university, they too will surely meet lifelong friends with whom they can talk for many years after graduation.
On the morning of the same day, the Graduate Entrance Ceremony was held at the same venue, welcoming a total of 1,824 new students across 14 graduate schools (1,274 in Master's Programs, 327 in Doctoral Programs, and 223 in Professional Degree Programs).
The ceremony began with a report on academic affairs by Vice-President Yoshimitsu Matsuura. In the following address by President Kohei Itoh, he encouraged students to refine their "bug's-eye view" to immerse themselves in learning and deepen expertise, their "bird's-eye view" to survey academic fields broadly from a high vantage point, and their "fish's-eye view" to discern social changes through human connections. He concluded by expressing his expectations for them to contribute to the development of society by working hand-in-hand with people around the world.
Next, Professor Nanako Ishido of the Graduate School of Media Design (KMD) delivered a congratulatory address on behalf of the faculty and staff. She spoke to the students about her hope that, through their studies in graduate school, they would question the "obvious" such as social structures and systems, pose new questions, and shape the future while connecting with society through dialogue with diverse people.
The event concluded with a Rendition of Alma Mater "The Juku-ka" performed by the Wagner Society Orchestra, celebrating a new beginning as family members watched from a separate venue.
Under the cherry blossoms in full bloom, it was a day where the hopeful smiles of new students brightened the Hiyoshi Campus.
Photography: Aki Takematsu