On March 17, 2026, the Shibaura Institute of Technology held a solemn degree conferral ceremony. A total of 21 students from the Geotechnical Engineering Laboratory (GEL-SIT; Prof. Inazumi Laboratory)—including three doctoral students, nine master’s students, and nine undergraduate students—received their diplomas with beaming smiles.
Despite the large number of students active in our GEL-SIT this academic year, each member remained mindful of the GEL-SIT as a whole, supporting one another and striving to improve together. The radiant expressions in the group photo eloquently convey the fulfilling research lives the students have led over the past few years.
The three doctoral students engaged deeply and tenaciously with research at the forefront of geotechnical engineering, transforming their findings into solid insights ready to be presented to the world. Their curiosity and integrity serve as invaluable role models for their juniors. The master’s and undergraduate students approached their respective themes with seriousness and grew steadily through repeated trial and error. Even amidst the liveliness of such a large group, I sensed a willingness everywhere to take an interest in each other’s research and share challenges as a laboratory. As their advisor, I experienced joy every day through research activities.
Furthermore, as we celebrate this year’s accomplishments and graduations, many students have achieved outstanding results and received various honors in university-wide awards. I would like to list their names here and celebrate their achievements.
▶️ Mr. Chanchayanon, Thiti: President’s Award (Global)
▶️ Ms. Arisa Katsuumi: Student Representative, Civil Engineering Crs
▶️ Ms. Ayumi Morota: Arimoto Award, Civil Engineering Crs
▶️ Mr. Takuto Hongo: Arimoto Award, Dept. of Civil Engineering
▶️ Mr. Yuki Fuka: Hakua Award, Dept. of Civil Engineering
▶️ Mr. Takuma Nakagawa: Hakua Award, Dept. of Civil Engineering
The Student Representative and the Shiro Arimoto Memorial Award (Arimoto Award) are presented by the Shibaura Institute of Technology to outstanding graduates and certificate recipients.
Congratulations to all graduates and certificate recipients of the GEL-SIT,
Congratulations on your graduation and completion of studies!
My personal motto is “Japanese spirit, Western skills.” While cherishing the traditional Japanese spirit—namely, sincerity, compassion, and perseverance—we must eagerly absorb advanced knowledge and technology from around the world, harmonizing the two to drive progress. I strongly urge you to maintain this mindset as you enter the workforce as engineers.
Civil and geotechnical engineering is a field that rarely comes to the public’s attention. However, the “ground” we work with supports the foundation of all social infrastructure. Roads, buildings, bridges, and ports all stand upon the ground. The Great East Japan Earthquake and numerous other natural disasters have taught us that understanding the ground is directly linked to protecting lives.
What you have learned in this laboratory extends far beyond mathematical formulas and experimental techniques. Your ability to see through to the essence of a problem, your tenacity to grapple with data, and your strength to move forward by collaborating with colleagues will undoubtedly serve as your foundation as you enter the professional world.
Engineers are responsible not only for solving the challenges before them, but also for building a society in which future generations can live with peace of mind. Walk your respective paths with confidence, carrying in your hearts the pride of supporting the ground and society for the sake of others.
The doors of this laboratory will always be open to you. I look forward to hearing your latest news.
Once again, congratulations on completing your studies and graduating.
Shibaura Institute of Technology
Geotechnical Engineering Laboratory
Professor Shinya Inazumi
