On April 2 (Sat), the 52nd Soka University and the 38th Soka Women’s College entrance ceremonies were held at the Ikeda Memorial Auditorium on the campus full of fragrant fully blooming cherries.

The ceremony started with a welcome performance by the Pride of SOKA, was followed by a commemorative video projection, which was followed by an introduction of the new President, Mr Masashi Suzuki, who took office on April 1, offered by the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Mr Yasunori Tashiro, gave a welcoming address.

Afterwards, the dance club ROUTE performed their welcome project, an incumbent student shared their welcome speech, the new student representative delivered an oath, and the new President, Mr Masashi Suzuki took over the stage as the Soka University and the Soka Women’s College representative.

The new President, Mr Suzuki, conveyed his congratulations and gratitude to the new students, their guardians and other related persons. Touching upon the development history of Soka University and the Soka University Grand Design 2021-2030, the mid-long term target for 2030, he stated: “I strongly hope that through daily life at this Soka University campus, each and every one of you will fulfil your goals by investing your efforts one step at a time. And that your lives will be filled with value creation as global citizen having the power to relieve humanity from danger.”

The grand finale included the attendants’ shining the penlight app in the rhythm of the school song, with strong determination for the coming years. Then, the ceremony was brought to an end.
The following comments were made by students participating in the event.
This was an original creation enjoyable for newcomers and our guardians. The warm welcome from the faculty members and the older colleagues made me very happy. I will study hard to fulfill my future dreams and would like to enjoy student life. (Faculty of Education, Department of Education)
The entrance ceremony was very impressive. It will be a short period of two years, but I will give my best to refine my character, create many new acquaintances, acquire language knowledge as well as various qualifications. (Junior College, International Business Department)