Saudi Crown Prince receives Honorary Doctor of Laws; Flowers from Humanoid Robot ‘WABIAN2-R’ bring a smile
Mon, Mar 3, 2014-
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Waseda University presented the title of Honorary Doctor of Laws to the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, HRH Prince Salman bin Abdulaziz, on February 21, during his visit to Japan.
Prince Salman (left) receives honorary degree
During the ceremony in the Ibuka Memorial Hall at Waseda’s International Conference Center, President Kaoru Kamata spoke of the importance of the event. “Being able to present Prince Salman with this honorary degree has deep meaning. I have great expectations that this day will be remembered as a giant step forward for the friendly relationship between our two countries as well as between the kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Waseda University.”
Prince Salman presented a message from King Abdullah: “Waseda University has produced many fine politicians, playing a vital role in strengthening relations between Saudi Arabia and Japan. We are grateful for today’s warm hospitality. We receive this honor on behalf of the entire nation of Saudi Arabia.”
Prince Salman addresses the assembly
Flowers presented by WABIAN2-R
The grand ceremony was attended by numerous Saudi royalty, diplomats, Waseda students, faculty, and media representatives. The ceremony concluded with presentation of flowers by WABIAN2-R, the humanoid robot developed by the Takanishi laboratory at Waseda’s Faculty of Science & Engineering. Prince Salman received the bouquet with a smile.
Commemorative photo with Prince Salman and Waseda leadership
Background
Crown Prince Salman bin Abdulaziz of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia leads many charitable organizations and promotes major cultural and charitable projects. In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and around the world, his contributions to humanitarian assistance, eradication of poverty and restoration of peace have been great. At home, he has provided significant support for historical research, promotion of science and technology as well as personnel development. At the same time, he has also put great effort into academic and student exchange with Waseda, and will surely play an even larger role in the future. In recognition of his great contributions to global development and to strengthening bilateral ties as a bridge between Japan and Saudi Arabia, Waseda University will confer on Prince Salman the honorary Doctor of Laws degree.
About Waseda University’s honorary doctorate
The honorary doctorate is the highest ceremonial title given by the University, conferred on persons deemed to have made exceptional contributions to academics, the arts, society or humanity, especially those with notable contributions to Waseda University. Including Prince Salman, the title has been awarded to 130 persons from Japan and around the world.
