University of Tokyo selects Yuko Fujigaki as next president

The University of Tokyo selection committee has announced Yuko Fujigaki as the president-elect. During a press conference, committee chair Hiroko Kuniya addressed concerns regarding a discrepancy between the opinion vote and the final selection, stating that the committee viewed the issue as “not a major problem.”

Kuniya emphasized that the selection process focused on independence, responsibility, and the ability to explain the reasoning to the university and society. The committee evaluated candidates based on their ability to implement reforms, international experience, and the integration of humanities and sciences. Kuniya noted that gender was not a subject of discussion during the process.

Fujigaki expressed a “great sense of responsibility” regarding her selection. She stated her intention to address the university’s financial challenges and declining public trust by returning to the fundamental purpose of higher education.