On Thursday 28 November at the Luton campus, Professor Fumiyo Nakatsuhara – Professor of Language Assessment – will share her insights into how assessment can be effectively used to transform educational systems.

Click here to register for free tickets.

With extensive experience in language test development and validation, Professor Nakatsuhara – who is also the Deputy Director of the University’s Centre for Research in English Language Learning & Assessment – has led numerous international projects for ministries, universities, and examination boards, influencing millions of language learners worldwide.

During the lecture, Professor Nakatsuhara will also delve into her new research project that developed and validated a new English speaking test for the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, in partnership with and commissioned by the British Council. The project is set to benefit 240,000 junior high school students annually, promoting English speaking skills and addressing a longstanding educational challenge.

Speaking about the lecture, Professor Nakatsuhara said: “I am very much looking forward to sharing some of my work that has contributed to offering more valid and fair assessments to learners around the world. I hope you can share my excitement for the power of 'good' language assessments. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all the wonderful people in my professional and personal life who have shaped me.”

After the lecture, there will be an opportunity for attendees to stay for refreshments and chat with Professor Nakatsuhara and ask any questions you may have about her lecture.

Later this academic year, there will be two further inaugural lectures – save the dates in your diary now and keep an eye out for further details soon.

• Inaugural professorial lecture of Professor Vladan Velisavljevic – Tuesday 14 January 2025

Inaugural professorial lecture of Professor Angel Chater – Thursday 13 March 2025