Okayama University's Memorial Statue Unveiled for Professor Shigeo Takahara

Okayama University Honors Professor Shigeo Takahara with Memorial Statue

On May 7, 2026, Okayama University held a significant ceremony to unveil a statue dedicated to Professor Shigeo Takahara at its Junko Fukutake Hall on the Kakuda Campus. This event commemorated the invaluable contributions that Professor Takahara made to the university’s Medical School and the field of otorhinolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat science).

Professor Takahara, a highly esteemed figure, served as the head of the Medical School and was pivotal in establishing Japan’s first class for students with hearing impairments, earning a prestigious Cultural Award for his efforts. The unveiling ceremony was attended by approximately 70 attendees, including family members, former students, and notable figures from both within and outside the university community.

The ceremony commenced at the university's Junko Fukutake Hall, where Junko Fukutake Hall’s Medical School Committee Chair, Dr. Atsushi Wada, delivered a speech honoring Professor Takahara's renowned contributions to medical education. Following Dr. Wada, Okayama University President Yasutomu Nasu shared his words of appreciation for the dedication and hard work that Professor Takahara exemplified throughout his career.

Professor Mizuki Ando, who specializes in the field of otorhinolaryngology and head and neck surgery, spoke next, highlighting Professor Takahara's impressive achievements. The atmosphere during the ceremony was filled with reverence and respect for the esteemed professor as the statue was revealed.

Transitioning outdoors, President Nasu, Dr. Wada, Professor Ando, and the Takahara family's eldest and second sons conducted the unveiling. As the statue came into view, smiles emerged on the faces of those gathered, followed by enthusiastic applause from the attendees. The statue encapsulates not only Professor Takahara’s legacy but also serves as an enduring inspiration for future generations of medical students who will continue his mission in the medical field.

In remarks representing the family, Takahara's eldest son, Ikufumi Takahara, expressed gratitude for the university’s initiatives and shared his reflections on the statue’s meaningful presence on campus. His brother and sister also shared heartfelt words, emphasizing the important legacy left by their father.

Installed prominently on campus, the statue now stands as a guardian for students embarking on their journey to become the next generation of healthcare professionals. Okayama University, recognized as a distinctive research university at the heart of the community, continues to strive for excellence in its educational endeavors and research initiatives.

In addition to honoring Professor Takahara, the ceremony showcased Okayama University's ongoing dedication to advancing healthcare and education in the region. As a research institution committed to addressing contemporary issues through innovation, the university is poised to play a critical role in the future of medical and scientific research.

Those interested in learning more about Okayama University’s medical school can explore additional resources via the following links:

With a track record of supporting Japan’s Sustainable Development Goals, Okayama University has been recognized with the Special Award at the first Japan SDGs Awards. The university remains committed to fostering collaborative initiatives that contribute to society and further solidifying its standing within the global research community.