Kyoto University's entrance ceremony was held on April 7, 2025, at Miyako Messe in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City. In front of the new students, President Nagahiro Minato called on them to "take on the challenge without hesitation if you think this is an opportunity for you."
A total of 2,918 students, including international students, were admitted to 10 faculties.
In his speech, President Minato mentioned that there are fewer students studying abroad these days, but said, "Studying abroad is not just about acquiring information and knowledge. The experience of living with young people of your generation in a different culture will have a big impact on your way of life," emphasizing the importance of gaining various experiences during your time as a student.
He also explained Kyoto University's "academic spirit of freedom." He mentioned the French thinker Étienne de la Boëtie, who argued that being influenced by others leads to abandoning freedom, and emphasized the importance of pursuing academic and research paths of one's own volition without being swayed by external factors.
