Happy New Year!

I am truly delighted to welcome this peaceful and promising new year together with all of you. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the faculty and staff members who have dedicated themselves to Yamagata University over the past year. Thank you very much for your hard work and unwavering commitment.

This year, we will focus our efforts on three particularly important initiatives for the university.

1. Educational Reform
In April, we will launch the new School of Collaborative Regional Innovation and Data Science. Unlike traditional faculties, this program will engage students in problem-based learning from the early stages of their studies. The data and know-how gained from this innovative approach will contribute to university-wide educational reforms. Additionally, we aim to prepare for the establishment of the Faculty of Education by FY2026 and set the course for comprehensive reform of our educational programs. Another crucial priority is the reform of our admissions system and improving the environment to increase the number of international students. These efforts are urgent and essential for the university’s future.

2. Faculty Organization Reform
Amidst the challenging financial situation surrounding the university, ensuring the stable implementation of education is our mission. To achieve this, we aim to create a flexible faculty organization capable of delivering diverse educational programs even with limited faculty resources. This year, we will review our current personnel policies and formulate concrete measures to operationalize the Academic Assembly.

3. Administrative Reform
Last year, with everyone’s cooperation, we introduced the integrated ID system and launched the A-SOM platform as part of our efforts to advance digital transformation (DX). This year, we will evaluate the effects of these initiatives and further reexamine long-standing administrative processes. The decision to share this New Year’s greeting as a video message is one small example of these reforms. Even small changes like this can be implemented immediately, and I encourage all departments to collaborate—faculty and administrative staff alike—to identify and implement reforms that make our work environment more efficient and supportive.

Despite the challenging external circumstances, we will actively engage with society to strengthen the foundation of our university. Last year, Yamagata University’s educational and research achievements were highlighted in various media, significantly enhancing our social presence. This year, we will continue proactive efforts to raise awareness of Yamagata University, strengthen societal support through active communication, and implement bold management reforms to ensure the university’s sustainable development. These initiatives require the active involvement of every member of our university community. To accelerate the three reforms mentioned, it is crucial for the President, the executive team, and all campuses and departments to maintain close communication and exchange ideas frequently. We plan to create as many opportunities as possible for this purpose and ask for your cooperation.

Our work is vital to nurturing the next generation and shaping the future of society. Even amidst various challenges, seeing our students actively and energetically engage on campus serves as a source of inspiration and motivation for us all. Let us start this new year with pride in our work, and I look forward to working together with all of you to create a fruitful and rewarding year for Yamagata University.

Thank you for your continued support, and I wish you all a successful and fulfilling year ahead.

 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　                         President TAMATE Hidetoshi,
                                                                                                                             January 6, 2025