Inauguration Ceremony for New Student Council Officers: A Fresh Start for Hokuryō
This morning’s school assembly featured the inauguration ceremony for the new Student Council officers.
Each newly appointed officer received a certificate of recognition from the Principal,
their eyes shining with renewed determination and pride as they accepted their new responsibilities.
The Principal expressed heartfelt appreciation to the outgoing officers
for their leadership and dedication,
and offered warm words of encouragement to the newly appointed team
as they begin their important work of shaping the school’s future.
Following the ceremony, both the former Student Council President’s farewell speech
and the new President’s address were delivered to a hall filled with warm applause.
It was a moment of true continuity — a passing of the torch —
marking the start of a new chapter for Hokuryō Junior High School.
Keywords: Hokuryō Junior High School / Student Council / Inauguration Ceremony / Principal / Leadership / Farewell Speech / New President / Encouragement / Teamwork / Student Autonomy
※All photos were taken with school-owned cameras, transferred via a wired connection to staff PCs, and uploaded to the school website in a securely managed environment.
We have just concluded the certification ceremony. To all newly elected officers, I look forward to working with you over the coming year. And to the third-year students who are retiring from their Student Council roles, thank you for your tremendous service.
The work of a Student Council officer may look glamorous from the outside, but in truth it’s built on countless, steady tasks. Especially here at Hokuryō: morning greetings, lunchtime announcements, preparing for events—and cleaning up afterward—your daily to-do list is truly long. I have often been amazed by both the volume and the quality of what you accomplish. None of this is “ordinary.” Because you only know Hokuryō, it may seem normal—but a council that sustains this level of daily effort is likely unique even within Osaka City. You should be proud.
At last week’s third-year assembly, everything—from emceeing to the remarks on stage—was carried out entirely by the third-years. Of course, teachers offered guidance and held planning meetings. But it was you who stood on stage, ran the program, created the atmosphere, and brought it all together. It was a true culmination of your work.
Now, a request as we look to “the year ahead”: “Do the Right Thing.” That single phrase says it all. It’s also the title of a film by the renowned American director Spike Lee. Whenever I face a difficult choice, I return to this question—“Is this the right thing?”—and decide accordingly. As Student Council officers, you will face more moments of uncertainty precisely because you are in front of everyone. At times, the popular choice and the right choice won’t be the same.
For example: “Let’s allow students to bring snacks to school and eat them during class.” How about that? Such a campaign promise might win popularity—but is it right? In moments like that, choose what is Right.
Finally, our long-awaited Sports Day is this week. I hope each of you stays healthy and gives your best.