Chiba Institute of Technology Awards Honorary Doctorates to His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, Ms. Laurene Powell Jobs, and Mr. Reid Garrett Hoffman

“Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

But this feels less like a ceremony and more like a reaffirmation of responsibility—governance.

I think we share a lot in common: agency, purpose, and service to humanity. I’ve had the great pleasure of spending time with Joi Ito-san, Reid, and Laurene. I can say that they are among the most wonderful human beings I’ve had the privilege to know.

We’ve had many conversations about the greatest challenges leaders face today—what I call the fault lines: institutional drift, technological disruption, and environmental disaster. What impresses me most is their belief in humanity, their sense of purpose, innovation, and resilience. As someone who bears responsibility, that gives me confidence. I believe we will solve the world’s problems. It may take time, but we are responsible, intelligent, and capable enough to ensure a better future for our children.

I also want to speak about Joi. He’s a dear friend, confidant, and advisor. He’s so smart that his mind goes upstream faster than the rest of us can paddle downstream. But what truly distinguishes him is his kindness—his humility, loyalty, and brilliance. He gives deep meaning to everything he does and says.

I’m grateful to be part of this community and to call everyone here my friends. And I express my deepest gratitude to Chiba Institute of Technology.
This is an honor I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Thank you very much.”

“My friends, it is a true, deep honor to receive this degree from Chiba Tech—a university not only advancing knowledge, but redefining its purpose during this time of global urgency.

Under President Ito’s leadership, Chiba Tech embraces a bold and essential vision—one that sees engineering not as an isolated field but, like this garden, as a force for ethical inquiry, environmental stewardship, and human connection.

So, friends, how should we build in this century? Let us build not with ambition alone, but with tenderness. Let us build not just what dazzles, but what endures. Let us build not from division, but from wholeness. When we do, we give the world something that can heal.

To be honored by an institution asking such questions—and daring to answer them—fills me with hope and gratitude.

Thank you for this honor. May we continue to build what the world needs next. Arigato gozaimasu.”

“Three brief thoughts.

First, appreciation for this moment—gratitude to Saihoji Temple for hosting us, to Chiba Tech and Chairman Setokuma for this event, to Fujita-san of Saihoji, and to President Ito for bringing it all together.

I also feel deeply honored to be here with dear friends—His Majesty and Laurene. I cannot imagine anything more meaningful.

There is something symbolic about being in this temple of moss. It stands as a bridge, and in today’s world, we need bridges—between East and West, Bhutan, Japan, and California, between history and the future.

Finally, we must always hold onto hope—for where humanity is heading and for what we can achieve together. Places like this remind us of our capacity for compassion—for each other and for nature—and keep that hope alive.

Thank you, Saihoji. Thank you, Chiba Tech. Thank you, Chairman and President Ito.”