March 04, 2022

On behalf of Okayama University committed to advance the SDGs, I would like to express both my deepest concern about the tense situation around the world and my firm opposition to the war that leads to humanitarian crisis for any reason whatsoever.

As the only university in Asia to hold the UNESCO Chair in promoting Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), Okayama University has led the way from the region to the world together with multi-stakeholders including United Nations (UN) agencies. As such, we reaffirm our adherence to the UN Charter which saves succeeding generations from the scourge of war, and respect the spirit of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development which meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations. I strongly call for an immediate and peaceful resolution to secure “peaceful, just and inclusive societies which are free from fear and violence.”

Okayama University will keep a very close eye on the situation and provide various supports to those involved.