Speeches
Monday, 15 June 2026
Okayama Gakugeikan High School (Okayama, Japan)
I am delighted to return to Okayama for a second time as Governor of South Australia.
It is particularly pleasing to hear about the connections young people in Okayama are building with South Australia through our schools and international education platforms.
South Australia and Okayama share an important sister state partnership.
Sister state partnerships can provided opportunities for meaningful connections and for people to explore new perspectives, develop respect for different cultures, and communicate across boundaries—broadening horizons for everyone involved.
The international program that your school offers, which includes a study abroad experience in regions such as South Australia, is one that opens such opportunities.
It is because both South Australia and Okayama Prefecture and our schools have a common aim to support young people to access a high quality and innovative education with a global focus.
While we often mark our partnerships with formal agreements or official visits, it is the people-to-people connections—especially those formed by you—that promise an enduring and vibrant future for our sister state partnership.
On this basis, I acknowledge and welcome all the students here who have studied abroad in South Australia, or who have plans to visit South Australia in the near future.
Your willingness to be a part of this international program is a testament to your curiosity, commitment, and enthusiasm for learning beyond borders. Congratulations for embracing this opportunity to share your cultures and for your bravery to form new friendships.
As the world changes rapidly, you will need to navigate challenges and opportunities that cross national, cultural, and linguistic boundaries.
More than ever, we need citizens who are open-minded, empathetic, and equipped to engage thoughtfully and respectfully with all people.
By participating in study abroad programs, you are becoming the global citizens our world needs.
I hope you continue to embrace opportunities to engage, both as students and as friends, into the future.
I am inspired by the courage and leadership you all show.
Please keep supporting each other, stay curious, and carry forward the best of both Australian and Japanese traditions as you grow and learn together.