— Embodying the Spirit of “Bestowing Light upon the World” toward the Future —
 |
On May 24, 2025, a commemorative symposium marking the 50th anniversary of Gakurin Koju (University program) was held at the Great Sacred Hall, drawing participants from across Japan and around the world. Conducted in a hybrid format that combined in-person and online attendance, the event served as an opportunity to reflect on the past and envision the future, guided by the enduring spirit of “Bestowing Light upon the World.”
In the first session, titled “Living the Spirit of Koju,” graduates shared how they have applied the Buddhist principles and life lessons cultivated through their time at Gakurin to their personal and professional paths.
An alumnus of the 16th class spoke about returning to study public policy after the age of fifty, motivated by the desire to address pressing issues such as population decline and regional labor shortages. Currently serving in a municipal policy department, he shared that his decision was inspired by Founder Nikkyo Niwano’s words, “One who continues to hold dreams and ideals, regardless of age, remains forever young.” He added that his guiding conviction—“Work itself is the practice of the bodhisattva path”—was born of his Gakurin experience and continues to shape his approach to public service.
A graduate of the 30th class described her efforts in the healthcare field to improve women’s health and workplace environments while balancing motherhood and a professional career. Grounded in the Koju teaching of “nurturing and empowering others,” she continues to expand opportunities for women in society, striving to create a future in which personal growth and social contribution can coexist.
Another alumnus, from the 32nd class, shared his journey as an entrepreneur overcoming numerous challenges. He spoke of the realization that true success lies not in profit but in serving others—discovering that “in saving others, one also finds liberation.” He emphasized that this awareness stems from the Buddhist values and communal learning cultivated during his time at Gakurin.
Other graduates working in public administration, social welfare, and elder care also shared their experiences, demonstrating that the spirit of Koju continues to live vibrantly in diverse professional fields. What united all their testimonies was a shared conviction: that the human qualities nurtured at Gakurin serve as both compass and strength for engaging with the complex issues of contemporary society.
In the second session, alumni active in education, religion, welfare, and international cooperation engaged in dialogue, reaffirming that the spirit of Koju transcends boundaries of nation, faith, and generation, and continues to offer relevance and inspiration for the modern world.
In conclusion, reflections from the Chair of Rissho Kosei-kai’s Board of Directors and the President of Gakurin reaffirmed that the lessons learned at Gakurin are not merely memories of the past but a “living force” that continues to breathe through time.
This 50th Anniversary Symposium not only showcased the fruits of half a century of Gakurin Koju’s human-centered education but also illuminated how its graduates, active in all walks of life, continue to embody the mission of “Bestowing Light upon the World.” As Gakurin moves into its next fifty years, this spirit will remain alive—rooted in each individual’s practice and shining as a guiding light for the world.
