Opening Ceremony of the Institute of Freshwater Biology, Nagano University Held on November 15

The opening ceremony of the Institute of Freshwater Biology of Nagano University was held on November 15, 2021, under a clear autumn sky. Representatives from the city of Ueda, universities, research institutions, and local stakeholders attended the ceremony, which included an opening speech by Chairman Hirai Toshihiro, congratulatory messages from Mayor Ueda Yoichi Tsuchiya, and Chairman of the Ueda City Council Tsuchiya Hiroshi, an overview by Director Hakoyama Hiroshi, a commemorative tree planting, a commemorative lecture by Professor Urabe Jotaro of Tohoku University Graduate School, “Expectations for the Institute of Freshwater Biology, Nagano University”, and a closing speech by President Nakamura Eizo.

Mayor Tuchiya said, “This is a rare institute in Japan that uses water from the Chikuma River. The research will also play an important role in the reorganization of the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Freshwater and biology is a very broad field, and there are many opportunities. In addition to being used by Nagano University students, the institute will also lead to high school-university cooperation for local high school students. I believe it will also be a place where high school and junior high school students can realize their aspirations in biology, science, or biological resources. As an administrative body, we will work closely together to develop the Institute of Freshwater Biology , which has many opportunities.

In his speech, Professor Urabe said, “We have established the first research institute at a Japanese university with a river facility. The most important thing is to promote cutting-edge, advanced research on freshwater organisms. Nothing can begin without the most advanced research in the world. Only through cutting-edge research can we develop human resources and bring research results to the local community. This will enhance the regional brand and the attractiveness of the university. I hope this institute will have great aspirations and be able to contribute to the world as well as the local community.