Yokohama Board of Education Apologizes for Filling Court Seats with Staff

YOKOHAMA, May 21 (News On Japan) - The Yokohama Board of Education has issued an apology for filling courtroom seats with staff during a trial involving a teacher accused of sexual crimes, preventing the general public from attending.

According to the Yokohama Board of Education, numerous staff members were mobilized to occupy the seats in the courtroom during the trial of a teacher accused of sexual crimes, effectively barring the public from attending.

In at least eight trials held from last year to this year, a total of 371 staff members were mobilized, with up to 50 staff members attending a single trial. In some cases, travel allowances were provided for this duty.

The Board of Education stated that the measure was taken at the request of the victims to prevent the spread of their information, denying any intention to protect the accused. However, they acknowledged that the action was excessive and apologized.

Source: TBS

New Japanese Passport Applications to Go Online

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has unveiled a new passport design set to be issued from March next year. The new system will allow online applications not only for renewals but also for new passport requests. Submitting an original family register certificate will no longer be required for online applications.

Future of Solar Power: Japan's Breakthrough Technology

The next generation of solar cells, known as perovskite solar panels, are ultra-thin, lightweight, and bendable. The Japanese government has set a goal of achieving the equivalent of the energy output from 20 nuclear reactors with perovskite solar cells by 2040. With their use set to expand in various locations next year, 2024 is being called "the dawn of domestic perovskite."

Record 7,000 Teachers in Japan on Leave Due to Mental Health

The number of teachers taking mental health leave reached a record high of 7,119 in the 2023 fiscal year at public schools across Japan.

Japan Reports 60% Rise in Non-Consensual Intercourse Cases

Japan's Ministry of Justice has released this year’s crime white paper, revealing that the number of recognized penal code offenses increased for the second consecutive year.

Giant Dragon Removed from Osaka Ramen Shop

The operating company of 'Kinryu Ramen' in the bustling district of Minami, Osaka, announced on Thursday that the iconic giant dragon sign was being removed as part of the process to rebuild the aging store.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Education NEWS

High School Students Produce Weddings in Unique Project 'Yacchae Bridal'

A wedding project led by high school students is gaining attention. Named Yacchae Bridal, this initiative involves third-year high school students planning and producing weddings as part of their coursework.

Kobe’s Shift to Community-Based Club Activities: Voices of Change and Adaptation

“I feel a little sad about it, to be honest,” a local parent remarked, reflecting on Kobe City’s decision to end school-based extracurricular activities. “But when I think about teachers being able to have personal time, I guess it’s unavoidable. Still, it’s hard for both parents and children to adapt to such changes midway. I just hope the transition minimizes disruptions to the environment they’re used to.”