Postponement of the March 2020 Graduation Ceremony and April 2020 Matriculation Ceremony

In response to the rapid spread of the Covid-19 coronavirus disease both within Japan and abroad, Akita International University will postpone its March 2020 Graduation Ceremony and April 2020 Matriculation Ceremony until a later date.

One of AIU’s unique characteristics is that we bring together students from all over the world and have them live together with domestic students on campus. Because of this environment, should the virus spread on campus, it could have serious effects both to our campus and to the local community. Therefore, I have made this difficult decision to cancel these events, giving primary consideration to the health of students, families, and the Akita community.

I am sure many new students and graduates will be disappointed to hear this news. Both Matriculation and Commencement are key moments in students’ lives. However, it is more important that both new students and graduates be prepared to embrace this next step in their lives in full health. Therefore, postponing these ceremonies is the best options not only to reduce health hazards but also to eliminate regrets and hard feelings of having these events when there is so much anxiety. I would like to ask for everyone’s understanding.

Sincerely,

Norihiko Suzuki, President