Shoichi Noguchi, University President
Shoichi Noguchi, University President
New Year's Greeting, January 4, 2001
At the beginning of the twenty-first century, I would like to wish all the university personnel and students peace and happiness throughout the year, and would like to express my gratitude for your daily support and cooperation from the bottom of my heart.
In September of last year, the university was honored by a visit by the Crown Prince and Princess, where the university's special features of international and regional contributions were explained to them. Furthermore, the University of Aizu was given an opportunity to leave a strong impression on people outside the university.
I think everyone still remembers clearly the lecture given by Dr. Akito Arima, a former Minister of the Ministry of Education and Science at The University of Aizu Industry-University Cooperation Forum held in December, describing his high expectations for the university in the future.
Progress of the ``IT Revolution" has changed our conception of time and space drastically, influencing every facet of society, including economical, industrial and educational fields. It has brought an era of large scale of information exchange and competition, which has never been seen before. On the other hand, we should not forget that there have also been negative aspects, caused by advanced scientific technologies.
In this sense, the twenty-first century can be described as an era requiring full understanding of how to balance between advanced scientific technology and progress for society. It is more important than ever before that researchers convey their knowledge and concepts to people in the society in an easily understandable way, and that knowledge created and accumulated at the university be actively brought to society through the linkage between the university and industry.
The University of Aizu has taken initiative in contributing to the local area, enhancing linkage with industry, and making efforts for developing human resources who can make contributions on a global level. It is foreseen that the credibility and expectations for the university will be enhanced in this twenty-first century.
The University of Aizu determined to give the best effort to meet expectations for the university from people concerned inside and outside Japan, as well as from those of Fukushima Prefecture. I also would like you to concentrate on education, research, and study this New Year.