UTokyo President’s Log

I gave a special lecture at Kumamoto University. I spoke about the challenges facing national universities, their future role and vision, and UTokyo's initiatives to help realize that vision.

Kumamoto University’s Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology and UTokyo’s Graduate School of Engineering signed a collaboration agreement, aiming to foster advanced semiconductor engineers and promote joint research. I was deeply honored to have the opportunity to give a lecture on a campus that builds on a rich history and tradition while pursuing cutting-edge research.

I visited the Amami Laboratory of Medical Science, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo. Having contributed to overcoming medical challenges specific to the region through efforts such as the eradication of filariasis and the development of treatments for habu snakebites, the laboratory is now engaged in collaborative research with partner institutions in Japan and around the world to address infectious diseases, including tropical and subtropical endemic diseases.The laboratory also serves as a research base for UTokyo's Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, conducting research on climate change and weather disaster prediction in anticipation of Japan's increasingly subtropical climate. In addition, it is committed to nurturing the next generation through its support for inquiry-based learning by local high school students.

These are all highly meaningful initiatives that make the most of the unique characteristics of Amami Oshima. I was particularly impressed by the laboratory's continued commitment to taking on new challenges while working closely with the local community over many years.

I attended the opening ceremony of the 65th Seven Universities Athletic Meet held at Kyushu University.

I hope that all the athletes, coming together from different universities across the country, will inspire and challenge one another and fully showcase the results of their daily training. I sincerely wish this competition every success and all participants the very best in their endeavors.

We held the 2026 UTokyo Safety Day Lecture. July 4 is designated as UTokyo Safety Day after a UTokyo member died on the day in 2005 due to an accident during diving. The lecture is held around this time each year to enhance safety and health awareness in educational and research activities, prevent accidents and disasters from occurring and establish a culture of safety, so the tragedy does not fade from our memory.

Under this year’s theme, “Let’s review our fire safety measures again,” lecturers in and outside the University talked about recent fire incidents as well as preventive measures. I presented an award to prize winners of the 10th UTokyo Environment, Safety and Health Slogan Contest. I would like all of UTokyo members to re-evaluate their safety awareness and will proceed with a task to maintain an environment where anyone can feel secure in their activities .