Kumamoto University Alumni Association in Taiwan Establishment Ceremony was Held
On February 6th, 2025, the Kumamoto University Alumni Association in Taiwan Establishment Ceremony was held in Taipei, Taiwan. The ceremony commenced with an opening address by Dr. Yun-Chuang Lai from National Taichung University of Science and Technology, representing the Kumamoto University Alumni Association in Taiwan, followed by a congratulatory speech from Kumamoto University President Hisao Ogawa.Next, distinguished guests were introduced, including Dr. Yu-Chuan Li, Director-General of Department of International and Cross-strait Education at the Ministry of Education, Taiwan, Dr. CJ Liu, President of the Association of International Cultural and Educational Exchange Taiwan, Ms. Chiaki Muramoto, Head of Cultural Affairs and Public Relations Department at the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association, and Dr. Masato Mori, Professor Emeritus of Kumamoto University. Each shared their thoughts on the significance of the relationship between Taiwan and Kumamoto University and their hopes for the future collaboration. Following the speeches, the official alumni association certification was presented by President Ogawa to Dr. Lai, marking the formal recognition of the Kumamoto University Alumni Association in Taiwan as the university’s fifth overseas alumni association.
In the latter half of the ceremony, Kumamoto University Executive Vice President Otani provided an overview of the university’s current status. This was followed by a special lecture by Professor Emeritus Mori on the theme "The World of Natsume Soseki's Kusamakura."
After the lecture, a dinner reception was held, beginning with a toast by Dr. Yu-Chuan Li. Attendees engaged in warm and lively conversations, strengthening their connections.
Additionally, Kumamoto University staff shared the latest updates on the university and the city of Kumamoto, allowing attendees to witness the continuous development of their alma mater. Dr. Eiji Ota, an alumnus, performed “Kanto gen (巻頭言)”, followed by all participants singing the Goko Dormitory Song (五高寮歌) together. The ceremony concluded with a Japanese traditional ippon-jime (一本締め) led by Executive Vice President Otani.
The ceremony was attended by approximately 40 participants, including former international students of Kumamoto University, Japanese alumni residing in Taiwan, and distinguished guests. The participants enjoyed reminiscing about their time at the university, sharing updates on their lives, and expressing great enthusiasm for future exchanges. With the establishment of the Kumamoto University Alumni Association in Taiwan, the bond between Taiwan and Kumamoto University is expected to deepen further, fostering even greater collaboration and exchange in the future.
Commemorative photo by alumni association participants
President Ogawa (left) presents the certificate to Dr. Lai, the Chair of Alumni Association
Executive Vice President Otani's presentation
Professor Emeritus Mori's special lecture
Dineer reception
Performance by Dr. Ota, an alumnus