Some 80 female researchers, students, faculty and staff came together at Tohoku University's Katahira campus on June 25 for the 2026 Sawayanagi Fellows Lunch, an annual networking and mentoring event that reinforces the university's commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).

Organised by the DEI Centre, the event brings together women from across the university to build professional networks, exchange experiences and support one another. Named after Tohoku University's first president, Masataro Sawayanagi, the programme also celebrates the Sawayanagi Fellows - female professors who serve as mentors and role models for the next generation of researchers.

Opening the event, President Teiji Tominaga said that fostering a diverse research community is essential to Tohoku University's mission as a University for International Research Excellence. "Diversity is a strength," he said. "We want to create an environment where everyone has the freedom to pursue their ideas, share different perspectives and learn from each other."

Since its launch in 2010, the annual lunch has provided a welcoming space for open discussion while highlighting the importance of addressing the persistent gender gap in Japanese academia. Tominaga encouraged participants to share the challenges they face and help shape a more inclusive campus. "One of the reasons I am here today, is to hear from all of you about challenges and obstacles, so that we might find ways to address them," he said.

For many attendees, the event offered a valuable opportunity to connect with colleagues beyond their own departments and disciplines. "I'm here because I want to meet other female researchers, and it's always interesting to talk with people outside my field," said Keni Atika Ratu, a researcher at the Graduate School of Environmental Studies. "I don't often get the chance to meet researchers from so many different backgrounds, so this is a great opportunity."

"It was incredibly inspiring to meet so many other women who are my age and also working hard at their jobs," said Satomi Oikawa, a staff member at the Department of Facilities. "I'm really glad I came."

The informal setting also encouraged conversations that might not otherwise happen within traditional academic structures, helping participants expand their professional networks and find new sources of support.

"I really like that I got to talk directly with the president, and I also think it's great to build a community with professors from other fields," said Emiko Sato, an associate professor from the Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Choilek Siwalee, a specially appointed assistant professor at the Graduate School of Information Sciences, said the DEI Centre's support extends beyond networking. "Last year I received funding through one of the Centre's programmes, which was very helpful," she said. "This year I wanted to join the activities to meet other female researchers and see how we can support each other."

While the Sawayanagi Fellows programme focuses on empowering women in academia, DEI Centre Director Mami Tanaka stressed that inclusion must embrace the diversity of the entire university community. "I'm delighted that researchers with disabilities joined us this year, including a professor who is hearing-impaired, and that more male professors are also getting involved in our activities," she said. "People from many different backgrounds contribute to Tohoku University. Respect and inclusion are essential if everyone is to thrive together."

Looking ahead, the next major DEI event will be the Masataro Sawayanagi Memorial DEI Award ceremony in September, recognising individuals and initiatives that have made outstanding contributions to advancing diversity and inclusion across the university.

Contact:

Tohoku University Centre for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)
Tel: 022-217-6092
Email: dei-centergrp.tohoku.ac.jp