Osaka Private Schools Advocate Optional Fee-Based Education Programs

Jul 24, 2024 | News On Japan

OSAKA - Osaka private school organizations have requested the Osaka Prefectural Government to publicize the existing system that allows students to receive special education programs for an additional fee, despite the ongoing initiative to make high school tuition free.

Starting this fiscal year, Osaka Prefecture has been gradually implementing a policy to make high school tuition free. Under this policy, the government will cover annual tuition fees up to 630,000 yen for both public and private schools, regardless of the parents' income. Any amount exceeding this limit will be borne by the schools, resulting in zero tuition burden for parents.

The association of private high schools in Osaka has urged the prefecture to inform parents about the system where additional fees can provide education beyond the free tuition scope.

Yoko Kusajima, Chair of the Osaka Private Junior and Senior High School Association, stated, "Data shows that almost 85% of parents are willing to pay extra for value-added education, indicating a significant demand for enhanced education in private schools."

In response, Governor Yoshimura stated that the prefecture would engage in further discussions with private school organizations to consider their requests.

Source: MBS

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