Global Hagi Scholarship and Leader Awards Ceremony at Tohoku University – Summer 2025
On August 8, 2025, Tohoku University hosted a ceremony at its Katahira campus to recognize the contributions of 48 students involved in the institution’s internationalization efforts. University President Teiji Tominaga highlighted the importance of developing a global mindset to uphold the university’s status as a leading center for International Research Excellence in Japan.
Ceremony Highlights
During the ceremony, Tominaga noted that international experiences not only enhance academic knowledge but also foster an appreciation for diverse cultures and adaptability to new environments. He reaffirmed the university’s dedication to cultivating students who can thrive in a global context.
Awards Presented
Among the awards presented, thirty students were recipients of the Global Hagi Scholarship, which facilitates their studies abroad at partner institutions. This scholarship, funded by the Tohoku University Fund, is awarded based on academic merit.
Student Experiences
Tsubasa Konno, a doctoral student in information sciences, accepted the scholarship on behalf of the recipients, while first-year master’s student Reika Kazama provided remarks at the event. Kazama shared her experiences from previous study abroad programs in France and Spain, which broadened her perspectives and inspired her to pursue a global impact.
Kazama expressed her anticipation for an upcoming exchange program in Sweden, where she aims to learn about environmental technologies and further her research on hydrogen storage alloys as a means of addressing environmental challenges. Additionally, she intends to improve her English communication skills and expand her international network.
Global Leader Certification
Eighteen students were awarded Global Leader certification during the ceremony, with third-year law student Kai Yamazaki representing the recipients. The Global Leader (TGL) program is designed to enhance the university’s international curriculum and promote collaborative learning among students from various cultural backgrounds. Certification is achieved by earning points through courses that foster a global outlook and participation in international experiences.
Reflections on Global Learning
In her speech, fourth-year medical student Asuka Matsushita reflected on how participating in the TGL program influenced her career aspirations. Initially motivated to seek opportunities abroad due to the challenges posed by Japan’s aging population, she came to appreciate the significance of understanding and improving conditions in her home country through a more global perspective. Matsushita encouraged her peers to utilize their experiences for broader international contributions.
Program Overview
The Global Leader certificates are awarded semiannually, with approximately 300 students receiving certification since the program’s launch in 2013.
(Source: Tohoku University News)
