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My name is Kaoru Kamata, President of Waseda University. On behalf of Waseda University, I would like to express a few words to congratulate all graduating students of AY2010 in undergraduate schools and Art and Architecture School, and the graduate students receiving their Master’s and Doctoral degrees, as well as their families and all persons concerned.

First of all, I would like to extend our deepest condolences to the victims of the disaster that hit the Tohoku and Kanto regions. Our prayers and hearts go out to all those who have suffered from this tragic event, and we sincerely hope for the earliest recovery of the affected areas.

In view of the various and serious damages from this disaster and of the social responsibilities expected of Waseda University, we recognize the necessity to avoid the potential risk of aftershock-induced troubles by assembling many people, and to help minimize strain on electric energy consumption and the public transportation system. Accordingly, we made a compelling decision to cancel the Commencement for AY 2010 and Diploma Presentation Ceremonies scheduled on March 25 and 26.

We all know that you had been looking forward to get together with university friends, faculties, staff, and family members, to make the special moment of graduation even more memorable as you reflect upon your campus life and congratulate each other to enter a new phase of life. We share your mind that the Commencement would have been the greatest memory of your campus life. Cancellation was therefore such a painful decision for all of us, and we are considering what we can do when things will be settled. I would like to ask all of you for your kind understanding and cooperation for this inevitable course of action.

The unprecedented catastrophic disaster reminded us of the gravity of the nature’s menace, the harsh geographical conditions of Japan, and the limitation of science and technology. Through a series of incidents that followed, it also became clear that an affluent and comfortable living that we had enjoyed is dependent upon an extremely vulnerable infrastructure, and it takes some time to restore it. On the other hand, we have been so deeply impressed by the dignity of human lives, the warmth of family ties, and the acts of compassion. The high moral standards and patience of people in the affected areas is also highly remarkable. We are also trying to find what we can. Waseda Law School started to offer learning opportunities for students of Graduate School of Law in Tohoku University, and many sports clubs have cancelled festive parties. Instead of celebrating their graduation with professors and friends, the students donated the collected participation fees as the fund of some million yen. I am so reassured to hear that many of our students and alumni are eager to contribute to the restoration of the affected areas.

Shigenobu Okuma founded Waseda University from his belief that fostering human resources with unique personalities and independent spirits would serve as the basis of our country in the turbulent times of the early Meiji era. Since then, Waseda University has inherited his founding spirit to contribute to the society through liberal and innovative research and practical utilization of knowledge. We have perpetually produced great leaders, and their stout and enterprising spirits have been demonstrated in many places on Earth, even in difficult times.

Japan is now in a critical crisis of survival. In addition to the political turmoil, sluggish economy, the strain on public finance and other factors that can evoke a sense of stagnation, this disaster has further slowed down our economic activities.

However, so many times in the past, our predecessors have vigorously brought this country back on its feet out of tragic situations and developed it into prosperity. It was young generations who initiated these efforts, and they were as young as you. It is now your generations who will absorb various lessons from this unprecedented disaster, transform them into new values and a new society, and explore a next era. I believe that you will demonstrate your leadership in this endeavor.

Now, please put your hand on your heart. What you feel is a precious life of your own, gifted from your parents and filled with the burning spirit of Waseda. I wish all of you to share our sympathy for all those who lost their lives in this disaster, to appreciate your life, and to live a full life for the good of others and the world.

You are the first graduating students I send off from Waseda University as President. Although this commencement does not accompany a festive event, today will be an unforgettable memory for the rest of my life. I will never forget about the promising youth I proudly send off from Waseda University with belief that they will rise and lead the restoration of Japan.

Lastly, I wish all the best for your future.

Kaoru Kamata