
On August 9, 2024, Friends of UTokyo (FUTI) held its second online Fireside Chat, entitled “How Can the University of Tokyo Expand Its Influence Globally?” Moderated by FUTI Board Member Geeta Mehta, the event featured panelists who explored strategies for enhancing the University of Tokyo’s (UTokyo) international presence.
FUTI President and Distinguished Professor of Chemistry at Stony Brook University, Iwao Ojima was one of the three speakers. He traced UTokyo’s historical rise and recent decline in global university rankings, attributing it to Western-centric evaluation criteria. He advocated aligning with these metrics while emphasizing UTokyo’s evolving mission: addressing complex societal issues through initiatives like UTokyo’s Future Society Initiative and the College of Design.
Ko-Yung Tung, FUTI Advisory Committee Member and Lecturer on Law at Harvard Law School was the second speaker. He questioned the significance and meaning of global influence, suggesting that UTokyo should redefine influence beyond rankings. He highlighted cultural exports such as literature and sports as examples of “soft” influence.
FUTI Advisory Committee Member and Director at HR&A Advisors, Eri Furusawa, also another speaker, reflected on UTokyo’s progress in gender equity and international representation. Citing her contrasting experiences at UTokyo and Columbia University, she urged UTokyo to adopt more inclusive policies and expand its international outreach.
During the dynamic discussion that followed, participants shared diverse perspectives. Key recommendations included improving student recruitment, fostering international partnerships, supporting student groups on campus, and enhancing UTokyo’s public relations. Several participants emphasized the need for UTokyo to better publicize its alumni achievements and strengthen its global brand.
Looking ahead, panelists proposed bold ideas. Prof. Ojima suggested greater international collaboration, while Ms. Furusawa envisioned a Japan welcoming to diverse, international students. Prof. Tung underscored the need for systemic reforms, including faculty compensation and reduced bureaucratic constraints. He argued that attracting top-tier international faculty and students would require UTokyo to revamp its administrative structure.
Participants also debated whether UTokyo should prioritize specific areas of global influence or aim for broader societal impact. The event concluded with many attendees emphasizing the balance between rankings, societal contributions, global leadership of UTokyo, the need for strategic planning, increased investment, and a shared commitment to fostering an inclusive and globally respected academic institution.