University of Tokyo Appoints First Female President Amid Calls to Restore Trust

The University of Tokyo selected Professor Yuko Fujigaki, 64, of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, as its 32nd president, marking the first time a woman has led the 150-year-old institution. Her six-year term will begin in April 2027, following the expiration of President Teruo Fujii’s tenure. The selection committee chose Fujigaki despite her placing second in a faculty-and-staff advisory vote, which was topped by Vice-President Takao Someya.

University of Tokyo Picks First Female President in 150 Years Japan Times

The university has faced a series of scandals, including the arrest of a medical-school professor on bribery charges, and recent setbacks in securing funding from the government’s “Universities for International Research Excellence” program. These issues have prompted calls for stronger governance and a restoration of public confidence in Japanese academia.

University of Tokyo Picks First Female President in 150 Years

Both leaders framed the appointment as a step toward rebuilding the university’s standing.

University of Tokyo Picks First Female President in 150 Years

In the latest QS World University Rankings, the University of Tokyo ranked 39th globally, trailing Seoul National University (38th). The citation-per-faculty metric showed a gap: Seoul National University scored 80.7, while Tokyo recorded 64.6. Fujigaki noted that the university will celebrate its 150th anniversary next year and highlighted the appointment’s “considerable social significance,” hoping it will encourage more women to pursue research careers.

University of Tokyo Picks First Female President in 150 Years Japan Times

• “The University of Tokyo marks its 150th anniversary next year, and we have finally produced our first female president,” — Yuko Fujigaki, professor

University of Tokyo Picks First Female President in 150 Years