#Japan #Tokyo #Alumni Association #Okayama University #J-PEAKS

Okayama University Alumni Gathering Strengthens Bonds and Ideas

On September 22, 2025, the Okayama University Alumni Association organized its second meeting of the year, titled the "Okayada Conference," at the Tottori and Okayama Antenna Shop located in Tokyo's Minato district. This event, supported by the Tokyo branch of the Alumni Association, aimed to create a platform for alumni from diverse faculties and graduate schools to connect and share information.

The meeting welcomed around 30 alumni participants, featuring notable figures such as Keiichi Konaga, the President of the Alumni Association and a graduate of the Faculty of Law and Literature, and President Yoshitomo Nasu, who graduated from the Faculty of Medicine. The event was skillfully led by Nobuki Hasegawa, an alumnus from the Faculty of Law, who served as the moderator.

The session began with a report on the university's recent developments, presented by Fumihiko Sato, the Vice President and Senior URA, who graduated from the Faculty of Dentistry. Utilizing the university's newsletter, "Ichou Namiki," Sato outlined current initiatives and progress regarding the Ministry of Education's project, the "J-PEAKS" initiative, aimed at strengthening research universities in the region.

President Nasu expressed gratitude to the alumni for their continued support and reflected on the Tokyo branch's general meeting held on July 19. He highlighted plans for further collaboration with alumni organizations and discussed a book titled "Shiseiten ni Tsūzu: Keiichi Konaga Talks About Life," co-edited by President Konaga. This book provides insights from a prominent alumnus who played a significant role in supporting Japan during its rapid economic growth in the past.

Following the presentations, attendees engaged in lively discussions and updates about their current endeavors. At the closing of the event, President Konaga shared his thoughtful impressions regarding Nasu's suggested reading, delivering an inspiring message that encouraged all attendees.

Notably, this gathering is open to all alumni, regardless of their alumni association or graduate school affiliation. The next event is scheduled for January 19, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Tokyo, inviting all interested alumni to join.

Acknowledgment from President Nasu

In his message, Nasu expressed heartfelt appreciation to the alumni who participated in the gathering. He emphasized the invaluable role that graduates play as stakeholders of the university, and how their perspectives and feelings towards the institution contribute significantly to its growth. He noted that the featured book by President Konaga serves not just as a learning opportunity from predecessors, but as a testament to living a positive and active life beyond the age of 90, all of which adds value to one’s life journey.

He closed his remarks by affirming that Okayama University is continuously evolving, driven by a mission to keep alumni connected through a sense of "Okayada Love". Nasu looks forward to reconnecting with Tokyo-area alumni at the next Okayada Conference as part of this commitment.

Summary of the Event and Its Impact

The Okayama University Alumni Conference plays a pivotal role in maintaining the university's connected community. It invites alumni from various faculties to collaborate and share their professional experiences, fostering a spirit of unity and support that reinforces the relationship between alumni and their alma mater. As Okayama University strives to advance its mission as a research-centered institution, the alumni's engagement remains a vital asset. Exciting developments await as the university continues to adapt and thrive in the ever-changing educational landscape.