On February 14, 2024, the University of Tokyo convened its first-ever, in-person Global Navigation Board (GNB) meeting, marking a significant milestone in President Teruo Fujii’s longer-term strategic plan. The GNB members, appointed by the president, are globally-regarded experts from a wide variety of fields that range from investment banking, venture capital and edtech, to nonprofits. The board is tasked with providing valuable insights and guidance to UTokyo's leadership, aligning with the university's overarching vision encapsulated in the "UTokyo Compass."
During the all-day meeting, discussions centered on critical areas such as financial strategy, endowment expansion, and fundraising initiatives aimed at bolstering UTokyo's global standing. With a focus on fostering a culture of philanthropy and innovation, the board explored pioneering approaches to engage alumni, donors, and partners, emphasizing the importance of strategic partnerships and global outreach efforts.
Participants delved into the details of harnessing UTokyo's distinctive strengths - or “gems,” as one GNB board member described them - to attract support from various stakeholders worldwide.
In addition to addressing immediate strategic priorities, the GNB meeting provided a platform for in-depth examination on ways to strengthen UTokyo's position as a global leader in academia and research. Participants talked about how to advance the university's research agenda, including the establishment of strategic partnerships with industry leaders and international organizations. These partnerships aim to facilitate collaborative research projects, leverage cutting-edge technologies, and address pressing global challenges ranging from climate change to infectious diseases.
The robust discussions resulted in actionable recommendations by GNB members for advancing UTokyo's mission. Among the suggestions: Begin developing a database of alumni; figure out ways to create a feeling of belonging amongst not only alumni but current students; include alumni residing in Asia when fundraising instead of focusing only on Japan and the US; encourage startup challenges for a more diverse student body, including female students; and “think big” and globally when growing the UTokyo start-up culture.
To break up the long day of discussion, the GNB members and UTokyo staff were treated to an extensive campus tour after lunch, with stops at university landmarks such as the Akamon Gate, the Yasuda Auditorium, the General Library, Kaitokukan and the Row of Ginkgo Trees. After the close of the meeting, participants took a bus to Marunouchi to visit Intermediatheque, a public museum jointly operated by UTokyo and Japan Post Co., Ltd and located at the former Tokyo Central Post Office building. This was followed by a farewell dinner at a nearby restaurant which was enjoyed by all who attended.
Through ongoing dialogue and collaboration, the momentum generated by the GNB will continue throughout this year. UTokyo colleagues will further the agenda by acting on board member feedback with an eye towards reporting progress at the next meeting, to take place in February 2025. In particular, the feedback received will be used in the ongoing fundraising activities for the 150th anniversary of UTokyo and in the financial strategy. Through this free flow of ideas, the university will continue to tap the collective expertise of its faculty and partners to not only build a sustainable business model but to tackle complex societal issues and shape a better future for generations to come.
