Greetings

It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to this year's Japan Super Science Fair (JSSF). Since its inception in 2003, JSSF has grown into its 24th edition, thanks to the continued support of high school students, teachers, and researchers from around the world. Together, we have built a vibrant international network of academic exchange and friendship. On behalf of Ritsumeikan Senior High School, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who has contributed to the success and growth of JSSF over the years.

Today, we live in a time of unprecedented change. Challenges such as climate change, environmental issues, infectious diseases, energy security, poverty, and inequality cannot be solved by any one country alone. The next generation will need the ability to collaborate across borders, respect diverse perspectives, and work together to address these global issues. I firmly believe that science is one of the most powerful tools we have to achieve this goal.

JSSF provides a unique opportunity for high school students from around the world to share their research, learn from one another, and discover new ideas. Engaging with peers from different cultures and backgrounds not only deepens scientific understanding but also inspires fresh perspectives and innovative thinking. These experiences will become invaluable assets as you take on challenges and contribute to your own communities and the wider world in the future.

In recent years, the COVID-19 pandemic has transformed education, particularly international exchange. At the same time, it accelerated the development of online collaboration, opening new possibilities for global learning. Today, rapid advances in artificial intelligence are once again reshaping both education and scientific research. While AI offers tremendous opportunities, it also reminds us of the importance of uniquely human qualities such as creativity, critical thinking, ethical judgment, and meaningful communication. I hope that JSSF will serve not only as a place for students to learn from one another, but also as an opportunity for educators to discuss and explore the future of education together.

This year also marks the beginning of a new chapter for our school's Super Science High School (SSH) program. Having been selected for the seventh phase of the SSH initiative, we will continue working over the next five years to further develop and enhance JSSF. To encourage greater interaction between international participants and Japanese students, we have invited many more domestic high schools to join this year's poster sessions. We hope that these research exchanges will foster friendships and mutual trust that transcend national borders, creating lasting connections among the leaders of tomorrow.

Finally, I would like to express my deepest appreciation to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), all participating schools, and everyone whose dedication and support have made this event possible.

It is my sincere hope that JSSF will inspire young people from around the world to share their research with confidence and take meaningful steps toward solving both local and global challenges. May the friendships, ideas, and experiences born here become a driving force for creating a brighter future.

Thank you, and once again, welcome to JSSF 2026.