]Ceremony attendees in a commemorative photo
The opening ceremony of CENTER FOREST, a new facility in Ikuta Campus, was held on March 27. This new facility was built to address the challenges at the campus, including a shortage of classrooms and aging educational facilities. Furthermore, it is designed to provide a space for self-driven learning, responding to significant societal changes.
Attendees included YANAGIYA Takashi (Chairman, Board of Trustees) and UENO Masao (President), along with corporate officers, university executives, construction personnel and local representatives. The ceremony began with a Shinto ritual by a priest of Shirahata Hachiman Daijin, followed by a facility tour and a naorai — a reception celebrating the building’s completion.
At the reception, YANAGIYA Takashi, Chairman, Board of Trustees, expressed his appreciation to NIKKEN SEKKEI LTD. (responsible for design and supervision), Fujita Corporation (construction), and Seiwa Business Co., Ltd. (furniture and equipment). In his speech, he stated, “Enhancing our research ability is essential for the University to move forward as an institution open to the world and actively contributing on a global scale. The Ikuta campus is set to play a pivotal role in our initiatives, and we are pleased to announce the completion of this new facility, designed to serve as the heart of the campus.” He expressed his hope for continued support and cooperation as the university approaches its 150th anniversary in 2031.
The demolition of existing buildings and exterior site work are scheduled for fiscal 2025, with full project completion anticipated for March 2026.
CENTER FOREST
CENTER FOREST, a new symbol of the Ikuta Campus, stands at the intersection of the Academic Mall and the Campus Mall, serving as a central hub easily accessible from all areas of the campus.
This is the first place students visit upon arriving on campus. The facility brings together classrooms, a learning commons, and a library. These areas are linked by the Center Commons —an atrium designed to promote incidental encounters and self-driven learning. Embracing the concept of “Diversity in the Forest,” the facility carries forward the legacy of the former Himalayan cedar landscape, while offering co-creation spaces for students from diverse backgrounds to gather, learn, create, and share information.
“CENTER FOREST” Concept Movie — New School Building, Ikuta Campus