Reception for International Academics (23 October 2017)

On 23 October, the Kyoto University Reception for International Academics 2017 took place at the Clock Tower Centennial Hall, with approximately 300 attending.

Hosted by the President, the annual event aims to promote networking, friendship, and a sense of community among the University's international researchers and academic staff, as well as with their Japanese colleagues. Guests include the deans and directors of various faculties and departments, and the University's executive staff.

With Professor Yukari Mitsuhashi, vice-director of the International Strategy Office, serving as mistress of ceremonies, the reception opened with a greeting from Dr Kayo Inaba, executive vice-president for gender equality, international affairs, and public relations.

President Juichi Yamagiwa then welcomed the guests, and gave a short speech, in which he outlined the ideas underlying the University’s guiding strategy -- the WINDOW Concept -- and discussed the importance of sharing knowledge and ideas across academic disciplines to encourage creativity and innovation.

Following a toast by Dr Nagahiro Minato, provost and executive vice-president for strategy coordination, research, planning, and hospital administration, the participants enjoyed the buffet in a relaxed atmosphere, mingling with their new colleagues and acquaintances. Many of the international scholars were accompanied by their spouses and children, to whom a nursery room and children’s area were provided at the venue.

The reception included a performance by students from the Kyoto University Kyogen Society, who performed the traditional comic play Boshibari ("Tied to a Stick"). In addition to provoking laughter, the performance introduced the guests to a more unusual side of traditional Japanese culture.

The two hours of the reception passed quickly, and the guests left the venue with new friends, and even more good memories.