Education: The Key to a Safer and Stronger Japan
Schools and education are essential for all children. Yet here in Japan, many kids are not enjoying school—or worse, not attending at all. This reality leaves them behind in opportunities for learning and growth. As a result, parents often struggle to maintain stable, full-time jobs while caring for children who are out of school.
When dropouts and hikikomori are denied the education they deserve, Japan faces a future of poverty and instability. Education isn’t just a privilege—it’s a necessity. It is what equips young people with the tools to think critically, plan their futures, and become active members of society. Ignoring this need is not an option if we want Japan to thrive.
Opportunities for Education and Learning Spaces
Every child should have access to education and a place where learning feels possible. At the very least, children need to be equipped with skills that will help them navigate and succeed in today’s world. Key areas of focus should include:
- IT Skills: The backbone of modern careers and global communication.
- Sex Education: To empower young people with knowledge about their bodies and relationships.
- Japanese and Math: Core subjects for critical thinking and problem-solving.
- Finance Education: To teach the importance of managing money and building financial independence.
- Critical Thinking: To help children analyze, question, and make informed decisions.
I’m open to hearing better ideas as well, but these essentials cannot be overlooked.
Education as a Solution to Poverty and Insecurity
A lack of education leaves children vulnerable—not just to poverty but also to societal exclusion. If we fail to address this issue, Japan risks becoming a less safe and less stable country. On the other hand, when children have access to proper education, they grow into adults who contribute positively to society.
Shifting Mindsets Around Learning
Education is not just about attending classes; it’s about creating opportunities for growth and instilling a mindset of curiosity and responsibility. Some people approach learning with negativity, asking questions not to grow but to complain or resist. This mindset leads nowhere. To build a better Japan, we must:
- Promote curiosity and open-mindedness: Encourage kids to ask questions that come from a genuine desire to understand, not fear or resistance.
- Teach responsibility and accountability: Show students the value of taking ownership of their learning and decisions.
- Foster critical thinking: Equip young people with the ability to analyze and make informed choices based on evidence.
A Safer, More Prosperous Future
Investing in education is investing in Japan’s future. It’s the foundation for reducing poverty, building safer communities, and ensuring economic growth. Educated individuals are better equipped to:
- Take on jobs that drive the economy.
- Understand and participate in solving societal issues.
- Contribute to a stable and supportive environment for the next generation.
A Call to Action
What we need now is action—not just talk. Japan must prioritize education and create learning spaces that adapt to the needs of today’s children, parents, and society. Let’s listen, learn, and work together to provide kids with the opportunities they deserve. Let’s ensure parents have the support they need to balance work and family life.
This is not just about improving education; it’s about securing the future of Japan. The time to act is now.
Here’s a multiple-choice questionnaire designed to gather data on what subjects or education are most important for children in Japan, particularly for those not in school or employment. We kindly ask you to answer according to the category that applies to you. Thank you for your cooperation!
1. Which subject do you believe is most important for children in this era?
- A. IT and Computer Skills
- B. Japanese Language and Literature
- C. Mathematics
- D. Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
- E. History and Social Studies
- F. Art and Creativity
- G. Physical Education
2. What life skills do you think children should learn to prepare for the future?
- A. Financial Literacy (budgeting, saving, investing)
- B. Communication and Public Speaking
- C. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
- D. Time Management and Organization
- E. Teamwork and Collaboration
- F. Leadership and Decision Making
3. What career-oriented skills should children focus on to adapt to today’s job market?
- A. Programming and Coding
- B. Translation and Language Proficiency (e.g., English, Chinese)
- C. Engineering and Technical Skills
- D. Business and Entrepreneurship
- E. Healthcare and Nursing
- F. Agriculture and Sustainable Practices
4. Which social skills do you feel are crucial for children to learn?
- A. Conflict Resolution and Negotiation
- B. Empathy and Emotional Intelligence
- C. Networking and Building Relationships
- D. Respect for Diversity and Inclusion
- E. Assertiveness and Self-Confidence
5. How important is sex education for children in Japan?
- A. Very important
- B. Somewhat important
- C. Neutral
- D. Not very important
- E. Not important at all
6. Do you think children should receive education about mental health and well-being?
- A. Yes, it’s essential
- B. Yes, but not a priority
- C. Neutral
- D. Not really necessary
- E. No, it’s not needed
7. Which extracurricular activities do you think would benefit children the most?
- A. Sports and Physical Activities
- B. Arts and Music Programs
- C. Volunteering and Community Service
- D. Robotics and STEM Clubs
- E. Debate and Model UN
8. What digital skills should be emphasized in education for children?
- A. Basic Computer Skills (typing, email, presentations)
- B. Cybersecurity Awareness
- C. Social Media and Digital Etiquette
- D. Data Analysis and Visualization
- E. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
9. How important is teaching Japanese cultural traditions and values to children?
- A. Extremely important
- B. Very important
- C. Neutral
- D. Not very important
- E. Not important at all
10. Should education prioritize global perspectives and intercultural understanding?
- A. Yes, it’s essential for the future
- B. Somewhat important
- C. Neutral
- D. Not very important
- E. No, it’s unnecessary
11. Do you believe practical skills like cooking, carpentry, or gardening should be part of the curriculum?
- A. Yes, they are essential life skills
- B. Yes, but only as electives
- C. Neutral
- D. Not very necessary
- E. No, they are irrelevant
12. How important is financial literacy for children to learn?
- A. Extremely important
- B. Very important
- C. Neutral
- D. Not very important
- E. Not important at all