Okayama University has appointed Associate Professor (Special Appointment) Ooi Lia of the Faculty of Environmental, Life, Natural Science and Technology as Vice Chair of the Okayama University UNESCO Chair, effective April 1, 2026. This marks the first time a faculty member from outside Japan has been appointed as Vice Chair of the Okayama University UNESCO Chair. An appointment ceremony was held on the same day, during which Professor Atsufumi Yokoi, UNESCO Chairholder and Vice President (Global Engagement), presented the appointment letter.
Associate Professor Ooi leads the Laboratory of Glycobiology and Phytochemistry, a joint research course established in collaboration with Nagase Viita Co., Ltd. Her research focuses on glycobiology, microbiology, agricultural science, environmental science, and sustainable food systems, addressing global challenges such as climate change and food security. Through industry–academia collaboration, her work is expected to contribute to the realization of a sustainable society.
Through this appointment, Okayama University aims to further strengthen the international activities of the UNESCO Chair, expand research, education, and outreach initiatives in collaboration with regional industries both domestically and internationally, and accelerate efforts toward the realization of a sustainable society.
Message from Associate Professor Ooi Lia
“It is a profound honor to be appointed as the Vice Chair of the UNESCO Chair at Okayama University. As the Principal Investigator of the Laboratory of Glycobiology and Phytochemistry—a joint research course between Nagase Viita Co., Ltd. and Okayama University—I am deeply committed to contributing to the continued growth and global impact of this important initiative, creating new and meaningful value together through our expertise in glycobiology, microbiology, agricultural science, environmental science and sustainable food systems. The UNESCO Chair stands as a powerful platform that connects knowledge, people, and purpose across borders. As Vice Chair, I am inspired to advance Okayama University’s mission of promoting research and education for sustainable development in close collaboration with the United Nations. Through dynamic partnerships, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a shared vision, we can address pressing global challenges through education, research, and innovation. I firmly believe that by uniting diverse perspectives and expertise, we can spark transformative ideas, empower the next generation of scholars and leaders, and work together toward building a more sustainable, inclusive, and better world for all.”
◯ About the Okayama University UNESCO Chair
The Okayama University UNESCO Chair was established in 2007 under UNESCO’s UNITWIN/UNESCO Chairs Programme as a center for promoting Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). Through education, research, and community engagement, the Chair aims to contribute to the realization of a sustainable society.
The UNESCO Chair promotes collaboration with universities, research institutions, government agencies, companies, and local communities both in Japan and abroad. Through these partnerships, the Chair advances sustainable development from local to global levels.
Currently, Professor Atsufumi Yokoi, Vice President (Global Engagement), serves as UNESCO Chairholder and leads international collaboration and educational initiatives.
Okayama University UNESCO Chair Website
https://globalengagementoffice.okayama-u.ac.jp/en/unesco-chair/