President welcomes international students at annual party (16 June 2016)

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On Thursday 16 June, the 2016 welcome party for international students took place in the Clock Tower Centennial Hall with President Yamagiwa as the host.

The annual party was first held in 1961, and the 2016 event was the second to be hosted by the current President. A total of 357 newly enrolled international students attended, along with 85 guests from Kyoto University and related organizations, including KU's executive vice-presidents and deans.

President Yamagiwa, in his welcome address, highlighted the University's international environment and urged the students to be "wild and original". Student speeches were delivered by Ms Nina Steenmetz from the Netherlands and Mr Korneliusz Haduch from Poland, both of whom specialize in Japan studies. Both spoke of the joy of studying and living in Kyoto, a city steeped in history and tradition, and of the importance of getting to know the local community. Professor Shinsuke Kawazoe, executive vice-president for student affairs and library services, then made a toast, changing the atmosphere from formal to festive.

For the first time, the program included a panel session, in which five students from four regions -- North America, Africa, Asia, and Europe -- shared their reasons for choosing Kyoto University as their study destination.

The live entertainment, a staple of KU welcome parties, began with a cappella group CrazyClef warming up the crowd with their beautiful harmony and cheerful music, followed by the KU Iaido club's hakama -clad, sword-wielding members captivating the audience -- most of whom had never seen the martial art in action -- with their intense performance.

The party came to a close amid smiles and merriment as everyone enjoyed each other's company.

From left: Ms Steenmetz, Mr Haduch, President Yamagiwa, and EVP Kawazoe

Panel session

CrazyClef in performance

Iaido club members

Party venue