2026 Academic Year J. F. Oberlin University Spring Semester Entrance Ceremony ~A Big Step Toward a Fulfilling Life~

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On Tuesday, April 7th, our university's Spring Semester 2026 entrance ceremony was held with great fanfare at the Tokyo Garden Theater in Ariake, Tokyo.

This year, the number of new entrants was 2,878 from the academic cluster and 75 from graduate students, totaling 2,953. Additionally, the Institute for Japanese Language and Culture (Institute for Japanese Language and Culture) entrance ceremony, held alongside the university entrance ceremony, welcomed 18 new students, and many parents attended.

On behalf of the new students, Mr. Shinon Nagao from College of Aviation took a powerful student oath on stage, and President Hiroaki Hatayama approved the admission of the new students and welcomed them as they began their studies at J. F. Oberlin University.

Additionally, President Hatayama stated in his address, "J. F. Oberlin University has a traditional value of maximizing respect for each individual's uniqueness. You are free without being bound by anything, and you don't need jealousy or vanity. Our university has a tolerant environment that embraces each individual's uniqueness with open arms. New students, please sharpen your individuality until you succeed in society. How you change yourself is up to you. Start with small things, but imagine your 'ideal state' and have a purpose and goal." he said.

He further delivered a powerful message: "Don't hold back, don't set limits for yourself, and objectively enjoy the changes in yourself. Let's challenge ourselves with the mindset of 'making the most of university.' As you gain more knowledge and skills, your network expands, and opportunities increase, each of you will change significantly. And that change is growth. As your knowledge increases and your skills improve, your life will become more fulfilling, and the more unique you are, the more valuable and precious you will become. In this way, you will become a person who can make a great contribution to others and society, and you will be appreciated by many people. And being appreciated will bring you joy, which will ultimately contribute to your own happiness. I pray that you will have a fulfilling university life, sharpen your uniqueness, and realize a rich life."

Entrance Ceremony Part 2: "Student Performance"

Following the ceremony, the second part of the entrance ceremony featured a "student performance" planned and organized by the current students.

Hosted by Motoki Sato (College of Health and Welfare 4th year) and Mahiro Ishii (College of Arts and Sciences 4th year), the a cappella club will perform, a message from Chihiro Saito (College of Business Management 4th year) representing senior students, advice for new life from student supporters, and a screening of short films by Epic from the Video Production Department. Performances by the wind ensemble, song-leading club, and cheerleading club were held to welcome the new students.

For all new students, our faculty and staff will fully support you so that your days at J. F. Oberlin University become a rewarding time to refine your uniqueness and carve out a rich life, and that you can gain many experiences and grow to enjoy a fulfilling student life.