A lively and diverse crowd filled the venue, representing a broad spectrum of Swiss institutions, from ETH Zurich and EPFL to the universities of Basel, Geneva, Lausanne, Neuchâtel, St. Gallen, and Zurich, as well as the Geneva Graduate Institute and FHNW. The mix of long-standing members and new faces, including several participants joining after the recent NexGen event, created an atmosphere that was both familiar and refreshingly new.
The evening opened with remarks from Kyoko Marumo Suzuki, Head of the Science & Technology Office (STO) at the Embassy of Switzerland in Japan. She offered a thoughtful overview of the office’s activities throughout 2025, reflecting on a particularly rich year marked by Switzerland’s contributions to the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, numerous visiting delegations, and a wide range of events and initiatives that deepened scientific and technological collaboration between the two countries.
To spark conversation and laughter, the program included a playful “This or That” segment featuring some of Switzerland’s most iconic cultural dilemmas. Guests were invited to choose between Swiss mountains or Swiss lakes, paprika chips or nature chips, and the eternal question of raclette versus fondue. The friendly debates revealed some unexpected preferences, and plenty of good‑natured teasing.
The gathering also featured a Year-End Alumni Photo Contest, inviting participants to share their favorite memories from their time in Switzerland. Submissions ranged from sweeping alpine landscapes to lively student gatherings, and the simple joy of discovering Swiss traditions. The audience voted for their favorite entries, and the three most popular photos received small prizes in recognition of their creativity and storytelling.
As the event drew to a close, the STO team offered a heartfelt surprise: a bouquet presented to Anne-Mai Do, marking her final event before the completion of her contract at the end of the year. The gesture reflected the team’s appreciation for her dedication and contributions to the Embassy’s work and to the alumni community.
The 2025 Year-End Gathering concluded on a note of gratitude, connection, and anticipation for the year ahead, reaffirming the strength and spirit of the Swiss Universities Alumni community in Japan.
