As I begin my new term as President of Sophia University, I would like to express my deepest condolences to the people enduring great loss and suffering from the Tohoku-Pacific Coast Earthquake and tsunami. I also understand that the entire Sophia community is deeply shaken by this unprecedented disaster.
This massive earthquake has affected life and society in many ways, and I would like to clarify our basic policy with regards to the beginning of the academic year. For new students, the entrance ceremony and orientation camps will be cancelled in response to the call for energy conservation, and orientation will be held on campus. Guidance for new students will start on April 4 instead of April 1. For current students, there is no change in the schedule for guidance and health check. Classes for all students will start on April 14 as planned.
The mission of a university is to provide a full education for students and space for research activities within our capacity. Sophia University has completed earthquake-resistant reinforcement on all our campus buildings, and our facilities are currently in good shape for the start of the semester. Furthermore, thanks to our dedicated faculty and staff, we have made every adjustment to facilitate necessary changes and start the semester on time. Given the hot summer months in Tokyo and the expected increase in the demand for electricity, we consider it prudent to start the semester on time to avoid a delayed end that may result in a greater strain on the energy problem. We continue to give serious consideration to safety issues, to watch the situation closely, and to make any necessary adjustments to prioritize the safety of the Sophia community.
Among our current and new students, some are directly affected by the earthquake and may not be able to arrive on time for the beginning of the classes. For these students, we will provide financial assistance, counseling, and special consideration and flexibility with regards to classes. The university is committed to helping these students adjust to the new academic year in the best of our ability.
Among our international and exchange students, some are unable to join us in the new semester. Sophia University has always treasured our long-term and deep relationship with our international community, and we regret any inconveniences and disruptions that this disaster has brought. We will continue to maintain a safe and nurturing educational environment in anticipation of your participation. For those who are joining us in spring, our commitment to safety and education remains unchanged, and we will do our utmost to keep you fully informed.
In the past, Sophia University had rebuilt and risen with grace and resilience after the Great Kanto Earthquake and the Tokyo Air Raid by directing our focus on providing quality education. In the midst of the great challenges that face us at the beginning of this academic year, I believe strongly that our mission toward society is to dedicate ourselves to education, research, and the cultivation of an even greater humanity to serve a country and a world in need. We will continue to be vigilant in disaster prevention and measures, and we plan to be proactive in energy conservation as we begin this new academic year. To all students and guardians, I appreciate your understanding and support for our basic policy, and I look forward to the beginning of a good academic year.
Prof. Tadashi Takizawa
President
Sophia University
April 1, 2011
