Dear Partners, Participants, Students, and Friends,

I am delighted to announce the 6th annual Seirei International Research Conference (SIRC) 2024. Reflecting on the five conferences we have held thus far, we have witnessed the advancement of expertise and the emergence of new areas of study each year. Initially, the main purpose of the conference was to foster research and exchange with our partner institutions. Over time, presentations by undergraduate students were incorporated, and researchers from institutions beyond our partners joined in. Now, it has been transformed from a platform for exchange to a venue for the discovery of new knowledge and ensuing discussions. It has truly grown into a genuine academic research gathering, and for this, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who have contributed.

The online conferencing system is a remarkable discovery and advancement in the knowledge of human beings who faced the limitations imposed by the pandemic. However, in research, encounters with fellow scholars are just as vital as the exchange of information. Through these encounters, cooperation and collaboration can be forged within and across the fields. People possess the unique ability to enhance their logical thinking through communication. It is a natural behavior for people to gather after engaging in the same discussion in the same space, sharing their thoughts openly over a meal or similar. This is a common practice among researchers. It is not surprising that from such interactions, ideas that were previously unimaginable often emerge. I hope that many research topics will sprout and that discussions will be promoted in order to learn about diverse values and perspectives, ultimately contributing to the creation of a new society.

Every activity undertaken by those who gather at the conference carries a vital message and serves as a source of inspiration for the next generation. It also plays a role in nurturing the researchers of tomorrow. The collaborative efforts of partner institutions offer the potential for the creation of new values and theories together. If novel ideas are conceived on this platform and passed down to future generations, our academic pursuits and institutions will remain robust and secure.

I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the great success of previous conferences with the participation of many people. We hope that the participants will have a meaningful time and exchange at SIRC2024!

Sincerest regards,

Isamu Shibamoto, Ph.D.
Chair, Seirei International Research Conference 2024 (SIRC2024)