Moving Forward Together in a New Era

Asahi University President, Katsuyuki Otomo

　I wish you all a very happy New Year.

　Looking back on last year, we stood at a historic turning point ‘100 years since the Showa era began and 80 years since the end of World War II’, and Asahi University actively shared its voice with society in many meaningful ways. In June, we welcomed the mayors of Ono Town, Ibigawa Town, and Ikeda Town to campus for a town forum titled “Local Government as the School of Democracy. Now Is the Time to Discuss the Challenges Faced by Municipalities.”

　In autumn, our public lecture series invited two distinguished speakers: former Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr. Akitaka Saiki and former Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Ukraine Mr. Shigeki Sumi, providing valuable opportunities to deepen understanding of rapidly changing global affairs. We also held a Ukraine Support Charity Concert featuring Ms. Junko Yagami and our university wind ensemble, where we reflected together with our local community on the meaning and value of peace.

　In terms of making learning outcomes visible, our university continues to maintain high national examination pass rates for dentists, nurses, and dental hygienists, with many graduates now contributing significantly to regional healthcare. Our newly established Department of Emergency Medical Science, launched last April, has already attracted far more applicants than expected, reflecting strong expectations for advanced four-year specialized education here in the Tokai region.

　Furthermore, at the end of last year, 11 students from our Department of Business Administration successfully passed the Certified Public Accountant examination. Through our long-term partnership with the Gifu Prefectural High School Principals’ Association for Commercial Education, a seven-year integrated learning pathway, three years of high school plus four years of university, has already helped a total of 81 students pass this highly demanding national qualification.

　Internationalization is one of the core pillars of Asahi University’s founding philosophy. Yet, the ‘uncertainty of the world’ continues to rise. With the start of President Donald Trump’s second term, the United States is shifting away from the post-war international order toward protectionism, prioritizing national interests and intensifying domestic division. In response to these global shifts, Japan must strengthen its own autonomy and deepen cooperation with nations that share the values of freedom and democracy, while also recognizing the growing importance of food and energy security.

　Amid this increasingly complex international and domestic environment, Asahi University will remain firmly committed to nurturing individuals with broad perspectives who can thrive and contribute to the future global society. We sincerely appreciate your continued understanding and support in the coming year.