In June 2025, student support functions, including counseling, previously handled by the Health Support Center Student Counseling Room, were transferred to the SDC under the purview of the Student Counseling Center (SCC).
The Accessibility Resource Center (ARC) within the SDC was previously responsible for the coordination and provision of the resources necessary to smoothly implement reasonable school accommodations. However, because many students require support, including counseling, throughout school life, we have strengthened cooperation between the SCC and ARC to better support all students, including those with disabilities.
From Takeshi Akiba, Director of SDC
When I studied abroad a long time ago, I struggled with many challenges and did not know what to do. The people around me who noticed provided much support, and I regained my rhythm and became who I am today. We all lose our footing and sometimes face unseen barriers because of who we are. The SDC has pioneered nationwide initiatives to ensure the fullest participation of diverse students, including those with disabilities and those of various genders, sexualities, nationalities, and ethnicities. By converting the former Student Counseling Room into the SCC within the SDC, we have strengthened the system that supports our students’ studies. The system takes a comprehensive approach that includes the psychological well-being and interpersonal relationships of individual students as well as university systems, initiatives, and awareness activities. The SDC works alongside the Office for the Promotion of Equality and Diversity to fulfil its commitment to create a Waseda where everyone shines.
From Kyoko Ishida, Director of the Office for the Promotion of Equiality and DIversity
The functional reorganization of the SDC will further advance the practice of respecting each person’s diversity and equality, as stated at the beginning of Waseda University’s Promotion of Diversity Declaration, viewed from students’ perspective. We believe that centralizing support systems and strengthening cooperation will further promote the creation of an environment where every student with a diverse background can learn and challenge themselves at Waseda.
