Hiroshima University (HU) held its 2024 Commencement Ceremony on March 23, 2025, at the Higashi-Hiroshima Sports Park Gymnasium.

This year, a total of 3,647 students graduated, including 2,366 undergraduate students (24 international students), 14 advanced course students, and 1,267 graduate students (263 international students).

Under clear blue skies, graduates, dressed in formal attire, gathered with their families to celebrate this milestone, filled with gratitude and hope. The event was also live-streamed on YouTube.

During his speech, HU President Mitsuo Ochi reflected on the concepts of "freedom" and 
"responsibility."

"While freedom offers the joy of a broader range of choices, it also requires individuals to make their own decisions and take responsibility for those choices. Rather than shying away from the weight of this responsibility and seeking easy answers by relying on authority, it is important to always think critically and continue to think for yourself. Moreover, having the courage to speak up when necessary is essential," he said. 

"With the knowledge, friendships, and experiences you have gained at Hiroshima University, I encourage you to live without fear of freedom." 

Following the ceremony, President Ochi personally presented diplomas to each doctoral degree recipient, and commemorative photographs were taken.

In the afternoon, each school/graduate school organized a diploma-awarding ceremony for the graduates.

President's full Ceremonial Speech (English)

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