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On September 25 Waseda University invited Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn to its campus for a panel discussion with students on leadership, diversity, and Japan. Approximately 1,000 students attended the event in historic Okuma Auditorium.

Hosted by the School of Commerce, the event was part of an initiative by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association to foster interest in automobiles among the youth. The event also commemorated the tenth year since Waseda awarded Ghosn an honorary doctorate.

Waseda University President Kamata

“Carlos Ghosn is a powerful global leader, spearheading the success of international giants Nissan and Renault. In 2012, Waseda began implementing bold reforms as part of its mid to long term strategic plan, Waseda Vision 150. Waseda sees education as a means to unlock students’ potential and give them the insight necessary to become global leaders. Through technology and research, we are promoting innovative research that will shape the future. We are extremely honored to have Carlos Gohsn, a leader of the world’s automobile industry, speak with us today. To all students in the audience, I hope this discussion inspires you and leads you to new discoveries.”

Carlos Ghosn

“Leadership is not something that one is born with, but something which you apply in a situation. And you can improve it with experience and effort. Don’t think you are not that kind of person and give up. If you are sincere and strive to communicate, people will appreciate you. Mistakes can’t be avoided; don’t try to hide them, but use them as chances to improve yourself.”

“University is where you learn how to learn. 20 years from now, everything will be different, so you must continue learning to keep up. Enjoy your twenties.”