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Fumiko Yasuno, DSc, a Senior Researcher at the National Institute for Education Policy Research in Japan, graced the USM 79th Commencement Exercises as the Guest of Honor and Speaker on June 27, 2025 at the University Auditorium, USM, Kabacan, Cotabato.
Dr. Yasuno is a Doctor of Science in Mathematics where she earned in 2000 at the Graduate School of Mathematics, Nagoya University. She was an overseas researcher in the Netherlands and Nebraska, USA and now a Visiting Professor to several universities in Japan.
In her speech, Dr. Yasuno emphasized practical and meaningful life lessons for the USM graduates. She reminded them to be proud of where they come from. She said USM and its culture are great sources of strength. She learned from President Pimentel that the diversity of the tri-people-Muslims, Christians, and Indigenous Peoples—is not a problem to fix, but a treasure to celebrate. She then encouraged the graduates to think for themselves, and act with honesty and care.
“Dear graduates, while you studied at USM, the world changed a lot—COVID-19, several wars, natural disasters, and growing inequality. The pandemic showed us how uncertain the world can be, and how important it is to help one another.” The Senior Researcher underscored.
“Some of you will become teachers or researchers, engineers or farmers, business owners or civil servants. Whatever you choose, please remember: your success is not only about what you achieve, but also about how you help others,” Dr. Yasuno added.
The Japanese national shared her insights on Artificial Intelligence (AI) that continues to generate global interest and discussion today.
“Let me share one thought from my experience: As digital tools and Al become more common in our lives, we must not forget what makes us human. I am not good at English, but I have many researcher friends in other countries. I use technology to talk with them, even more than with English-speaking Japanese researchers. This shows me that technology is not the goal. It is just a tool. We should use it with kindness and wisdom,” She shared.
As she concluded her message, she reminded the graduates the values they learned at USM—such as critical thinking, honesty, compassion, and the ability to reflect will guide them in making wise decisions and contributing positively to the world. She also acknowledged the families and professors of the graduates for walking beside them during their journey-for all the support during both hard and happy times.
