Details of the Controversial Social Media Posts

The scandal erupted when screenshots of posts from two University of Tsukuba associate professors began circulating widely on X, formerly Twitter, in early February 2026. Associate Professor Naoto Fujii from the Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences posted on February 8, stating based on his experience that 'foreigners who come to Japanese universities are generally low in ability and troublemakers.' He elaborated that he ignores emails from unknown foreigners and only engages with those he knows from conferences. This generalization painted international students as incompetent and problematic, sparking immediate backlash for its discriminatory tone.

The second incident involved Associate Professor Fumiko Toyama, whose interactions on X included disrespectful comments about Thailand's political situation and allegedly threatening exchanges with Thai users. Reports highlighted her posts as lacking respect toward the country and containing discriminatory expressions against foreigners, including references to trapping Thai individuals. These posts were seen as not only xenophobic but also potentially breaching diplomatic sensitivities, given Japan's close ties with Thailand.

Fujii quickly responded on February 12 by deleting the post and issuing a personal apology, admitting it was 'extremely inappropriate' and pledging greater caution in future communications as an educator. Toyama's response drew more criticism, with some accusing her of deflecting blame by claiming attacks due to her gender and status.

University of Tsukuba's Official Response and Investigation

On February 13, 2026, the University of Tsukuba, a leading national research institution in Ibaraki Prefecture, published an official statement on its website titled 'Regarding Social Media Posts.' The university acknowledged that its faculty members had posted content featuring 'discriminatory expressions against foreigners and a lack of respect toward the relevant country.' It expressed deep apologies to those offended and announced an ongoing investigation to determine if the posts violated employment rules or the institution's Social Media Usage Guidelines.Official University Statement

By February 16, further reports confirmed the university's public apology, emphasizing regret for the harm caused. The institution committed to reinforcing awareness among faculty, staff, and students, highlighting its role as a national university promoting responsibility. No specific disciplinary actions or names were disclosed, maintaining privacy while underscoring reoccurrence prevention measures.

This response aligns with Japan's higher education sector's growing emphasis on digital ethics, where universities like Tsukuba, designated under the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)'s Top Global University Project, must uphold international standards.

Public and Online Reaction: A Divided Discourse

The posts ignited fierce debate on X, with hashtags and trends amplifying the controversy across Japan. Supporters of Fujii argued his comments reflected 'personal experience' amid challenges like language barriers and academic mismatches, viewing them as pragmatic rather than racist. Critics, however, condemned the sweeping stereotypes, noting they harm vulnerable international students already facing integration hurdles.

Toyama's case fueled petitions demanding her dismissal, with users citing hypocrisy given academia's push for diversity. Discussions split along lines of nationalism versus inclusivity, with some praising the university's swift action and others questioning selective outrage. Media outlets like Yomiuri Shimbun and Kyodo News covered the story, broadening national attention.

• Key trends: Calls for stricter professor accountability.
• Defenses: Highlighting real issues like unqualified applicants via agent systems.
• Petitions: Targeting Toyama for alleged threats.

University of Tsukuba's Internationalization Efforts in Context

Established in 1973, the University of Tsukuba (Tsukuba Daigaku) is Japan's premier comprehensive research university, boasting over 16,000 students and renowned for sciences, sports, and humanities. It hosts around 2,500 international students from 130 countries, comprising about 15% of its student body—one of the highest ratios among national universities. As a Type B Top Global University, it actively recruits globally to meet Japan's 2033 goal of 400,000 international students.

Programs like the International Priority Graduate Programs and English-taught degrees underscore its commitment. Yet, incidents like this expose tensions: while supportive communities exist, as noted by alumni praising inclusive environments, underlying xenophobia persists in academia.

Challenges Faced by International Students in Japanese Higher Education

Japan's higher education sector has seen international enrollment surge from 58,000 in 2003 to over 330,000 by 2025, driven by scholarships like MEXT and government initiatives. At Tsukuba, Chinese students form a significant portion, around 50%, mirroring national trends where they account for 40%.

However, students report discrimination: verbal microaggressions, exclusion from research groups, and biased grading. Surveys indicate 20-30% experience xenophobia, exacerbated by cultural homogeneity (98% Japanese population). The scandal amplifies these, potentially deterring applicants amid visa hurdles and high tuition for non-subsidized foreigners.

• Language barriers: Limited English support outside top unis.
• Employment discrimination: 'Gaijin' stigma in job hunts.
• Mental health: Isolation leading to higher dropout rates.

For faculty seeking roles in inclusive environments, resources like higher-ed jobs at global unis offer alternatives.

Broader Implications for Japanese Academia and Diversity Policies

This scandal underscores cracks in Japan's internationalization (kokusaika) push. MEXT mandates diversity training, yet enforcement lags. Similar past incidents, like professor-led exclusions, highlight institutional racism risks. Tsukuba's guidelines exist, but voluntary compliance fails amid free speech debates.

Stakeholders: International offices fear enrollment dips (Tsukuba saw 10% growth pre-incident); student unions demand ombudsmen; experts call for DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) metrics in promotions.

Comparisons:

Explore professor ratings via Rate My Professor for insights.

Expert Perspectives and Stakeholder Views

Higher ed analysts note Fujii's post reflects 'gatekeeping' mentalities, where faculty prioritize 'known quantities' amid administrative burdens. A MEXT report stresses cultural competency training. Thai embassy voiced concerns, impacting bilateral exchanges.

Student testimonials: 'Supportive peers, but faculty bias hurts research opportunities.' Faculty unions advocate nuance: address real issues like fraudulent agents without stereotyping.

Solutions proposed:

• Mandatory anti-bias workshops.
• Anonymous reporting portals.
• Incentives for intl supervision.

Potential Impacts on Enrollment and Reputation

Tsukuba risks short-term enrollment drops, especially from Southeast Asia. Nationally, Japan's 'brand' as safe yet insular could suffer, competing with Australia/UK. Long-term: If handled well, strengthens policies.

Statistics: Intl students contribute ¥700B+ to economy; scandals erode trust.

Path Forward: Recommendations for Japanese Universities

To foster inclusivity:

1. Enforce SNS guidelines with audits.
2. DEI in tenure reviews.
3. Peer mentoring for intl students.

Prospective faculty/students: Vet via higher ed career advice. Japan jobs at AcademicJobs Japan.

Photo by Mihir Sabnis on Unsplash

Conclusion: Rebuilding Trust in Tsukuba and Beyond

The Tsukuba scandal highlights the urgency for cultural shifts in Japanese higher ed. With proactive reforms, universities can turn crisis into catalyst for true global campuses. Explore opportunities at university jobs, higher ed jobs, rate my professor, and career advice. Share your views below.