The University of Tokyo will have a woman as president for the first time. The university has chosen scientist Yuko Fujigaki to lead it. She is a professor of science and technology there. No woman has held the post in the school's nearly 150-year history. The university, founded in 1877, is considered the top one in Japan.
Fujigaki spoke to reporters on September 29. She said her appointment could be a powerful signal for society. She hopes it will help gender equality in academic life. She also hopes more women will feel encouraged to enroll as students and aim to become scholars. Her term as president is set to last six years. The university has recently faced several scandals. She wants it to fully play its role as a symbol of academic society for Japan and the world.