On April 2, Okayama University held its 2026 Entrance Ceremony for both undergraduate and graduate students at the Okayama Prefectural Multipurpose Ground Gymnasium (Shigeto Arena Okayama). A total of 3,468 new students were welcomed as they embarked on their university journey.

In his ceremonial address, President NASU Yasutomo highlighted the key concepts of “Okadai Love” and FUEKI-RYUKO (constancy and change), emphasizing the importance of identifying enduring values in an era of rapid transformation. He encouraged the new students to envision the future they aspire to create, think independently about what is needed to achieve it, and take proactive action.

“Each of your choices will only become the right ones through your own efforts,” he stated. “You are all the protagonists of your own stories, and from today, a new day filled with hope begins.”

Representing the incoming class, MAKIMOTO Ryota from the School of Education delivered the student pledge:

“We aim to broaden our perspectives and deepen our humanity through mutual learning and friendly competition. By respecting diverse values and continuously embracing new challenges, we will strive to become individuals who contribute meaningfully to society.”

Following the ceremony, many new students were seen taking commemorative photos with their families and friends around the venue. In the gentle spring atmosphere, the day marked a memorable new beginning for each of them.

○ Full text of the President's address (Japanese)
○ Ceremony recording on YouTube (Japanese)
○ Photos from the day on Okayama University’s Instagram
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Please note that this content was translated by a machine and may contain errors.