Ever since assuming the leadership of the University of Tokyo, I’ve wanted to share my thoughts and activities as president with members of the university, as well as the larger community outside our institution. With my research field being connected to the ocean, I’d always kept a log during my time conducting surveys and being out at sea. Now, having embarked on my journey as UTokyo’s skipper, I would like to share with all of you my record of this latest voyage, through the UTokyo President’s Log.
Teruo Fujii, 31st President of the University of Tokyo
September 2026
UTokyo PLog #2026-E-10
Date & Time: September 26, 2026
Location: Amino Vital Field
Latitude/Longitude: 35°39'45.6"N 139°31'45.8"E Open in Google Maps
I watched the Kantoh Collegiate American Football Autumn League game between UTokyo and Keio University. Established in 1957, the UTokyo American Football team known as the WARRIORS has continued to play admirably in the top division, marked by their historic first promotion to the TOP8 in 2018.
On the day of the game, I was deeply impressed by how the team fought together as one, supported by the enthusiastic cheers of our Cheerleading Club, with meticulous tactics and highly honed skills. Seeing everyone give their absolute all made for an inspiring day that filled me with great energy.
UTokyo PLog #2026-UT-17
Date & Time: September 23, 2026
Location: Yasuda Auditorium, Hongo Campus
Latitude/Longitude: 35°42'48.3"N/ 139°45'44.1"E Open in Google Maps
I attended a ceremony commemorating the 140th anniversary of the UTokyo Athletic Foundation.
Since its establishment in 1886, the foundation has supported the activities of our various sports clubs and fostered a student-led sports culture, making significant contributions to students' physical and mental well-being as well as enriching their university experience.
The ceremony brought together current students, alumni active in various fields, and members of the university community. While reflecting on the foundation's 140-year history, the event also offered me an opportunity to consider the value and future of university sports.
UTokyo PLog #2026-E-09
Date & Time: September 16, 2026
Location: B2 Fukutake Learning Theater, Fukutake Hall, Hongo Campus
Latitude/Longitude: 35°42'41.0"N/ 139°45'36.2"E Open in Google Maps
Photo courtesy of Asian Development Bank
I participated in a symposium organized by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) titled “Role of Universities and International Organizations: How Will You Thrive in an Era of Global Transformation?” Together with ADB President Masato Kanda, Keio University President Kohei Itoh, Waseda University President Aiji Tanaka, and Kyoto University President Nagahiro Minato, I exchanged views on the roles universities and international organizations should play against the backdrop of rapid AI evolution and the growing multipolarization of the world, as well as the qualities required for global talent and our expectations for the next generation.
Photo courtesy of Asian Development Bank
Participating students asked candid questions and shared their views on future career development, drawing on their respective backgrounds. Through these conversations with my fellow speakers and the students, I reaffirmed my commitment that universities must continue to support the learning and bold endeavors of diverse students from all over the world.
UTokyo PLog #2026-UT-16
Date & Time: September 12, 2026
Location: Ito Hall, Hongo Campus
Latitude/Longitude: 35°42'36.6"N/ 139°45'37.5"E Open in Google Maps
I attended the graduation ceremony of the most recent class (Round 34) of the University of Tokyo Executive Management Program (UTokyo EMP).
A total of 20 participants completed the program this term. I sincerely hope that they will thrive in their respective fields by leveraging the knowledge gained through the program and the network built with previous graduates and lecturers.
UTokyo PLog #2026-R-02
Date & Time: September 7, 2026
Location: French Ambassador's Residence
Latitude/Longitude: 35°38'50.4"N / 139°43'31.8"E Open in Google Maps
I had the honor of receiving the rank of Chevalier (Knight) of France's esteemed Legion of Honor at the French Ambassador's Residence in Tokyo.
It was a truly joyful occasion for me to receive this honor in the presence of my colleagues who have shared this journey with me, both as UTokyo President and as a researcher. It was deeply gratifying that our long-standing academic exchanges with educational and research institutions in France have been recognized in this way. To be worthy of this great honor, I remain fully committed to deepening scientific and technological exchanges between France and Japan, and to further contributing to the advancement of global scholarship.
