Hiroshima University (HU) welcomed 329 new students ― of which 298 are international students ― at its 2023 Autumn Term Entrance Ceremony on October 1.

The event was held at the Satake Memorial Hall on the Higashi-Hiroshima campus.

On the same day, the Morito Institute of Global Higher Education 3+1 Program held an opening ceremony at the School of Economics’ lecture building, welcoming 131 new students from overseas.

In his ceremonial address, President Mitsuo Ochi talked about the G7 summit held in Hiroshima last May, highlighting HU's involvement with many student volunteers in hospitality and interpretation, and the university's organization of various related events. “I believe that we have been able to demonstrate to the world at large our ‘spirit of pursuing peace,’ which is the first of the university’s Guiding Principles,” he said. 

President Ochi also shared the words of Helen Keller, a renowned American author often referred to as a 'miracle woman,' who visited Hiroshima City 75 years ago, just three years after the atomic bombing. During her visit, she encouraged the citizens of Hiroshima by saying, “Make Hiroshima a city of peace that shines around the world.”

Lastly, he extended a warm welcome to the new students, stating, “Hiroshima University offers a variety of opportunities to help you fully achieve your potential and further enhance your abilities. I hope that you will actively take up the challenge. We are fully committed to supporting you so that you will feel proud to have studied at Hiroshima University.”

Read the President's full Ceremonial Speech here (English)

*Photos of the event will be released on HU's official social media.