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Receiving the Kyoto Prize is an honor that completely overwhelms me.
Thank you very much.
I actually received a research grant from the Inamori Foundation in 2004,
when I was working at the Nara Institute of Science and Technology.
It was at this time that I first learned of the Kyoto Prize.
I remember my surprise that such a prestigious award existed.
I'd never have dreamt that I would become one of the Kyoto Prize laureates less than 10 years later.
I'd like to reiterate my profound gratitude for this honor.
The research I pursued with the assistance of the Inamori Foundation
bore fruit and led to my selection for the Kyoto Prize.
Many people have been involved in this research with me.
I'd particularly like to mention Mr. Takahashi,
Ms. Tokuzawa, and Ms. Ichisaka, who have been in it right from the start.
Please allow me to take this occasion to express my indebtedness to them.
I am still only 47, much younger than most of the past Kyoto Prize laureates.
I was fortunate in many ways, supported by many young researchers,
and did my utmost in my research.
All of this was linked to the development of iPS cell technology
Recognition in this manner is like a dream come true,
and fills me with feelings of deep gratitude to all of the people who helped me.
I would like to ask young scientists to take heart from awards such as the Kyoto Prize
and join me in a determined effort to usher in a brighter future for Japan and,
indeed, for the whole world.
Once again, thank you very much.