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Kyoto University European Center hosted festivities to celebrate its fifth anniversary on 21 September 2019. The KUEC opened its doors on 3 May 2014 as one of Kyoto University’s overseas offices. Its major task is to foster research and educational activities of students and researchers. It also builds networks through organizing and participating in international events. By holding the anniversary ceremony, Kyoto University European Center intended to thank the partners that contribute to its success. Amongst the approximately 50 honoured guests were representatives from various partner universities and organizations like DAAD and JSPS. The Japanese General Consul (Munich) and a representative from the city of Heidelberg were also present.
The Anniversary Commemoration Ceremony was opened by Prof. Yamagiwa Juichi (President, Kyoto University). In his welcome address, he compared KUEC’s role as a “Window” between Kyoto University and Europe following the WINDOW Concept by Kyoto University to encourage enthusiastic research and internationalization. Prof. Bernhard Eitel (Rector, Heidelberg University) picked this notion up in his address emphasizing the utter importance of KUEC’s role for the proliferation of international cooperation. Kyoto University alumni Dr Mori Masahiko (President, DMG MORI CO., LTD.) also praised KUEC as a strong foothold in Europe from an entrepreneur point of view.
 Prof Yamagiwa Juichi giving his welcome address |
 Prof. Bernhard Eitel holding his greeting address |
 Exchange of gifts between the heads of Heidelberg University and Kyoto University |
 Dr Mori Masahiko (DMG) holding his address
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 Lecture by Dr Shimizu Kentaro (University of Zurich) |
 KUEC staff presentation |
Following these speeches, a KUEC member presented the Kyoto University European Center’s past activities and future visions, highlighting the important achievements of the past 5 years. He especially emphasized the role of face-to-face contact as a reason for its success and the existence of this oversea office. A lecture by Kyoto University Alumni Dr Shimizu Kentaro (University of Zurich) wound up the ceremony. In this, he talked about the internationalization, his experiences in Europe and presented his current research.
We got the feeling that this event was a good summary of our general goal: to foster exchange between people from Japan and Europe. Thus, it seamlessly connects our past 5 years to our future. Our work has only just begun.
 Prof Inaba holding a toast |
 Prof Laurent Servant holding his address |
 Address by Kyoto University exchange student |
 Presentation of Kyoto Origami Bookmarks |
 Guest at the reception |
 Guest enjoying foods and drinks |
Only because of the great support from all of you – including those we could not invite – were we able to achieve the fifth anniversary milestone. For this, all members of the Kyoto University European Center want to express their deepest gratitude.
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