Seikyo Shimbun

Tatematsu was a diligent young man who loved to learn and always had a book in hand.

In spite of his busy schedule, he submitted many articles on economics, literature and politics to the Seikyo Shimbun and other Soka Gakkai publications.

His articles were well received and highly praised.

He was also a considerate leader who looked after the members and was known for always making time to offer personal guidance and encouragement.

When Shinichi became the president in 1960, for example, there were only 130 headquarters staff members, but by early 1965, there were more than 1,100 across Japan.

In addition, with the Seikyo Shimbun's shift to daily publication in July 1965, that number continued to grow.

Also, because the headquarters was hiring talented youth who could shoulder the next generation, The average age of the staff was quite young, 29 in the general administration office and 27 in the editorial and publications offices.

Within youth resides infinite potential, but even the most magnificent rough gem will not sparkle unless it is buffed and polished.

He also showed great consideration towards their parents and families, sometimes going as far as to help the parents of some staff find work.

Shinichi was determined to make the Soka Gakkai headquarters the best workplace in every regard, so that all the staff could utilize their abilities to the fullest extent without any unnecessary worries or distraction.

One day towards the end of the year, Shinichi made a detailed inspection of every department of the Sokokagai headquarters and the Seikyo Shimbun offices.

He even visited the boiler room in the basement of the Seikyo Shimbun building.

The time has finally come for Shinichi Yamamoto to embark on the task of realizing the vision of his mentors, first and second Soka Gakkai presidents Tsunesabura Makiguchi and Jozai Toda.

The headline on the front page of the November 8, 1965 edition of the Seikyo Shimbun read, Soka University Establishment Steering Committee Formed.

The wheels had at last been set in motion for the long-anticipated creation of Soka University.

Shinichi had returned from Europe on October 31st and immediately called a meeting to discuss the university's establishment and organise a steering committee to look into the necessary procedures.