On December 2, 2023, the Winter School program came to a successful close. This year marked its fourth edition. We are deeply grateful to all the professors for their guidance and companionship throughout the program, to the students for their dedication to learning and presenting their work, and to Professor Von Brueck for his thoughtful course design and coordination. The success of this program would not have been possible without the support of all the faculty members.
This year’s theme was “Ecological Transformation.” Through an interdisciplinary approach, the program examined this important issue from multiple academic perspectives. Professors from various fields were invited to guide students in exploring the topic, integrating psychological perspectives, social communication, and innovative technologies to share resources and create opportunities for ecological transformation.
Students from different regions and academic backgrounds engaged in lively online discussions, raising the issues they each care deeply about and generously contributing their knowledge and insights. Today’s presentations were delivered with great care and dedication. Professors offered feedback from a wide range of professional perspectives, broadening and deepening the students’ thinking. I believe everyone has gained meaningful inspiration from this exchange. Moving forward, we will continue to collaborate so that the issues we care about can foster more diverse and well-rounded discussions.
Now that the course has successfully concluded, each group should carefully complete its final paper. Under the guidance of the professors, you are encouraged to develop proposals that are practical, scalable, effective, and innovative. More importantly, I hope you will continue to maintain your passion for ecological sustainability, embracing a spirit of personal responsibility and initiative—leading by example and inspiring more people to join our efforts.
May the Winter School guide you to reconnect with your spirituality and rediscover the fundamental essence of ecology. By addressing both the symptoms and the root causes of challenges, and by practicing moments of stillness each day, we can awaken our spiritual awareness and recognize the interdependent unity between ourselves and the natural world. Through understanding ecology, cherishing all forms of life, and taking conscious action, we can create harmonious and sustainable well-being for all.
