The Charter of Todai

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Preface

With the advent of the 21st century, humanity has entered an age in which global-scale exchanges transcending national boundaries have grown stronger by leaps and bounds. Japan too, is expected to display its unique characteristics and contribute to human civilization, as it opens itself to the world. The University of Tokyo firmly believes that, literally becoming “the world’s University of Tokyo,” an institution that serves the global public, is the best way to respond to the faith entrusted in it by the Japanese people and thereby serve Japanese society in this new era. It thus dedicates itself to pursue the truths and universal realities transcending the national, ethnic, and language barriers. Through its education and research, The University of Tokyo is also determined to contribute to world peace and human welfare, coexistence of human being with nature, creating a safe environment, balanced sustainable regional development, advancement of science and technology, and the critical evaluation of traditional culture and creation of new culture. In accordance with these aims, as a pioneer in the new era directed at fulfilling its mission, The University of Tokyo has formulated the “Charter of The University of Tokyo” to clarify its fundamental principles and goals.

Established in 1877, The University of Tokyo is the oldest university in Japan. As a representative of Japan, it has greatly contributed to the development of the modern Japanese state. In 1949, as a part of the post World War II educational reforms in accordance with the postwar Japanese Constitution, integrating the lessons from history and to erase the negative effects of the past, The University of Tokyo re-launched itself under the new system for institutions of higher learning, as a university dedicated to the formation of a peaceful, democratic nation and society. Ever since, in response to societal demands, this University has striven for the progress and promotion of education and research and has contributed to the rapid developments in science and technology.

Following the two phases, during the University’s original establishment and the postwar reforms, The University of Tokyo is now facing its third major phase of development as it is being transformed as a part of the national university incorporation and is seeking a new position capable of manifesting its autonomy more freely. Concomitant with this transformation, The University of Tokyo, while perceptively acknowledging its accumulated record of achievements, recommits itself to being a driving force for world-class academic research and to being an institution that nurtures intellectual citizens with a futuristic global outlook who will contribute to the realization of an unbiased society, advancement of science and technology, and creation of new culture. A prerequisite for The University of Tokyo’s next new leap is a united effort by the faculty and staff in successful management of the University.

A university originates from the fundamental character of academic pursuits that are conducive to intellectual growth and open to the infinite development of human possibilities. This requires freedom and autonomy. At the same time, the progress in science and technology demands a high level of ethical and social responsibility in the minds of the bearers of these fields. Furthermore, with the advent of a society in which knowledge has a decisive meaning in all fields, linking with other sources of knowledge is becoming increasingly significant in the development of university education and research. From these perspectives, The University of Tokyo, while aspiring to self-governance and autonomy, is opening itself up to the world, and promoting bilateral links between the University and society to benefit the society through research and at the same time creating research activities in response to societal demands.

For effective utilization of the resources entrusted to it by the Japanese people and society, carry out continued self-reforms and achieve world-class level education and research, The University of Tokyo must place great importance on its own decisions as an institution, while being open to critical evaluation by society regarding its decisions and practices. The University of Tokyo is thus, opening up its activities for public evaluation. To meet global demands, the University is transforming itself and undergoing necessary reforms by contributing to the exchange, creation and development of academic pursuits and knowledge in the world.

By promoting international education and research, The University of Tokyo will strive to broaden its internationalism and deepen its understanding of the various regions of the world, as it promotes education and research that aspires for truth and peace. Being constantly aware of its status as a Japanese university located in Asia, The University of Tokyo, by taking advantage of its accumulated expertise, knowledge-base and research capacity, will strive to strengthen its links with Asia and advance mutual exchanges with diverse parts of the world.

The University of Tokyo recognizes the importance of having diversity in its constituent members; guarantees no discrimination based on nationality, gender, age, language, religion, political or other reasons, origin, property, lineage, marital status, position within the household, handicaps, ailments, career, etc.; and strives to ensure that all its constituent members have the opportunity to participate widely in university activities.

The University of Tokyo takes great joy in ensuring the best conditions and creating an ideal environment for academic pursuits open to the world, free of any kind of discrimination, for the sake of the generation that will shoulder the future of both Japan and the world, and benefit those aspiring for truth. To achieve this mission, through this Charter, The University of Tokyo sets forth itself, as a collective body of knowledge, and pledges to advance itself with the supportive powers of its constituent members.