Tohoku University welcomed 20 new international undergraduates to the Future Global Leadership (FGL) program on September 27 under the attendance of Executive Vice President for Education and Student Support Hirotsugu Takizawa, Vice President, representatives from each FGL undergraduate course, and FGL members at the Global Learning Center.
Executive Vice President for Education and Student Support Hirotsugu Takizawa, in his speech, mentioned the International Excellent Research University Program, for which Tohoku University was selected. He emphasized that Tohoku University boasts not only well-equipped research facilities but also an environment where students and researchers from diverse backgrounds around the world can learn together, fostering the creative thinking necessary to solve problems centered on the SDGs.
Three students gave speeches on behalf of the new students.
Hoang, the representative from the AMC course (Faculty of Science), from Vietnam, stated that he was introduced to the FGL program in his first year of high school and was drawn to the opportunity to earn a degree in English and the comprehensive financial support it offered. Driven by these factors, he made the decision to study in Japan and has now realized his dream. He said: “There would be challenges and roadblocks at various times. However, I think that we will all make it through. The fact that we are here proves that we are willing to do whatever it takes to succeed in life”
Mateo, a representative of the IMAC-U course (School of Engineering), from Indonesia, gave a speech about his future student life. He emphasized the significance of curiosity, critical thinking, and cooperation in their educational journey. He stated, “it is essential to ask the questions “Why?” and “How?” when solving problems and innovating. What’s the point of knowing everything if you don’t have the skills to communicate and work together with others. “
Xinyi, the representative from the AMB course (Faculty of Agriculture), from China, stated that this environment with classmates from all over the world will lead to a better world and peace. She said: “Tohoku University is also where we connect to the world. Our university campus started its evolution to become a small Earth. And on this small Earth, we meet students from everywhere of the international society in our campus. We are fighting for the same future, about dreams, about love and peace, and about a better world.”
In the crisp, clear autumn weather of Sendai, classes for the entire university education program will finally begin in October.