On March 25, 2024, Okayama University held its Academic Year 2023 Degree Conferment Ceremony at the Okayama Prefectural Multipurpose Grounds Gymnasium (Zip Arena Okayama) to celebrate the new chapter of 3,141 undergraduate and graduate students’ lives.

Following the singing of the national anthem and the university song, President NASU Yasutomo conferred diplomas to the representatives of the 23 valedictorians of the undergraduate and graduate schools. Subsequently, the 17 recipients of the Okayama University Kokusho Award, which is given to students with outstanding academic performance and character, were commended, and a certificate was presented to the representative.

In his remarks at the ceremony, President Nasu introduced the concept of "FUEKI-RYUKO *", which he has advocated since assuming office as president. He urged graduates to consider what " FUEKI-RYUKO " means to them personally and to reflect on it as they move forward after graduation. Additionally, he extended the following heartfelt message: "All of us, the faculty and staff members, sincerely pray that you will carry the traditions, spirit, and pride (Okayama University Love) that you have learned at your alma mater, Okayama University, in your new workplaces and beyond, and that you will confidently flourish and thrive.”

Representing the graduates, NAKANISHI Momoka from the School of Science delivered the speech, while MATSUOKA Daiki from the Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences delivered their reply speeches on behalf of the graduates.

Outside the venue, graduates took commemorative photos with their families and friends, reluctantly saying goodbye.

Click here for the full text of the President's address (Japanese)
Click here to see the number of graduates (Japanese)
Click here for photos from the day of the ceremony on Okayama University's Instagram

* FUEKI is defined as things should not be changed (immutability) and RYUKO as things should be changed (fluidity).