University of Tokyo Names First Female President

Sep 29, 2026 | News On Japan

TOKYO - The University of Tokyo has selected professor Yuko Fujigaki, 64, as its next president, making her the first woman to lead Japan's most prestigious university.

Fujigaki, a professor at the University of Tokyo's Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, will succeed current President Teruo Fujii. Her six-year term will begin in April 2027.

"I want to return to the fundamental question of what a university is and fulfill the University of Tokyo's role as a symbol of the academic community in Japan and around the world," Fujigaki said following the announcement.

Fujigaki placed second in an internal university vote, but was ultimately chosen by a selection council made up of experts from inside and outside the university.

The council said Fujigaki had "sufficient ability to bring about reforms toward a more open university," according to the university.

Her appointment marks the first time a woman has been selected as president of the University of Tokyo.

Source: TBS

University of Tokyo Names First Female President

The University of Tokyo has selected professor Yuko Fujigaki, 64, as its next president, making her the first woman to lead Japan's most prestigious university.

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