Toward a Waseda That Contributes to the World
As Waseda University approaches its 150th anniversary in 2032, it is poised to take a major leap forward. Guided by the founding principles of the University, Waseda has steadily advanced under the strategic plan of Waseda Vision 150, established in 2012, and the subsequent concept of a “Waseda that shines on the global stage”. Today, however, we are called upon not only to build on these ideals but also to translate them into more practical action and accelerate our progress. By bringing together wisdom from a wide range of fields within and beyond the University, transforming diverse values into a source of strength, and carrying onward Waseda’s long-standing spirit of innovation and enterprise, we will advance to the next stage of our development.
Today, the world faces a wide range of global challenges, including deepening divisions, climate change, natural disasters, resource and energy issues, and pandemics. At the same time, the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence is fundamentally reshaping society itself. In such an era, the role universities must play becomes all the more crucial. Their role is to generate knowledge that leads efforts to solve these challenges, and to educate and send out into the world individuals who possess a broad perspective on the complexities of society and who can serve as pioneers for future developments.
The educational philosophy of Waseda University consists of three principles: “Independence of Scholarship,” “Practical Application of Scholarship,” and “Fostering of Good Citizens.” We must continue to interpret this founding philosophy, which has been passed down across generations, in light of the challenges of the present day and put it into practice with a spirit of innovation and initiative. We will bring together diverse forms of wisdom to create new knowledge and share it with the world, while striving to become an outstanding international research university that leads high-impact research contributing to society. Through the provision of excellent education and opportunities to take on new challenges, we will cultivate individuals who are trusted by the world – people equipped with solid foundational skills, practical abilities, advanced expertise, an international perspective, and a high degree of empathy. We will also promote research, education, and social contribution, thereby facilitating the resolution of diverse challenges ranging from the local to the global level. Step by step, we will turn these aspirations into reality.
Universities have the responsibility not only to inherit the accumulated wisdom of humanity, but also to continue adding to it through ongoing research and to pass the baton on to future generations. We will remain devoted to this endeavor so that Waseda may continue to play its part in the world. A university is a place like no other, where people gather, learn from one another, inspire one another, and refine themselves. Although the time spent at Waseda is limited, even after our students graduate and spread their wings across the world, their experiences here will stay in their hearts, and they can always return. It should serve as a source of strength from which they can reflect on their journey and find direction for the path ahead. Ensuring that Waseda continues to be such a place is also one of our most vital missions.
Drawing strength from Waseda’s tradition of open and vigorous discussion, respect for diverse values and approaches, and a constant willingness to embrace new challenges, we will build a university that contributes to the world through research, education, and social contribution.
Takayuki Homma
