News

To the graduating class of March 2020,

On February 27, Waseda University announced its decision to cancel the March 2020 graduation ceremonies. This has been a very difficult decision to make for us faculty and staff at the university.

As all of you may be well aware, the recent situation with the novel coronavirus is a very serious one. In order to prevent it from spreading, each one of us must exercise extreme caution and eliminate any possibilities that could cause an outbreak. After careful deliberation, made by holding a number of meetings, we have come to this agonizing decision of cancelling graduation ceremonies to reduce the risk of infection and prioritize the physical health and well-being of our students.

Graduation is supposed to be a time to praise and celebrate your achievements and confer your degrees as a result of what you have learned at Waseda. It is such a shame that we must cancel this occasion that represents an important milestone for you due to the situation we are faced with. While we are extremely disappointed, we are most certain that it does not amount to the disappointment you, your families and friends, and others who had been looking forward to the event are feeling now, which breaks our hearts. On behalf of the entire faculty and staff, I sincerely apologize for having to make this decision.

Though graduation ceremonies will not be held, I intend to express my words of congratulations for you in one way or another. Each and every single faculty and staff at Waseda wishes that you will be in good health when graduating and be ready to take the next step in life, filled with hope, in April.

Lastly, I would like to remind you to please take responsible actions in protecting yourself and others around you. I believe that many of you have planned gatherings with your zemi groups or circle/club members to celebrate. However, it has been reported that restaurants serving large groups, especially those which are buffet-style, could become a hotbed of the novel coronavirus. We ask you to cancel these events so that you can all be in the best physical condition and be prepared for your future endeavors.

Thank you very much for your understanding and continued cooperation.

Aiji Tanaka
President
Waseda University