Record 300,000 students in Japan do not attend school

TOKYO, Oct 04 (News On Japan) - The number of truants at elementary and junior high schools in Japan has reached a new high of almost 300,000 students, and reported bullying cases in all schools at about 690,000 during the 2022 academic year.

The results of a survey conducted by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) indicate that 299,048 elementary and junior high school students across the country were in non-attendance in the 2022 academic year, representing an increase of 54,108 students (22.1%) from the previous year.

This marks the 10th consecutive year of increase and continues to set new highs.

MEXT attributes this escalation to factors such as the prolonged impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, changes in living environments, disrupted daily routines, and various restrictions in school life, all of which may have affected students' motivation to attend school.

The number of recognized bullying cases in elementary, junior high, and high schools reached 681,948, which is an increase of 66,597 cases (10.8%) from the previous year, setting a new record high. This increase is believed to be partly due to the resumption of extracurricular activities and school events, leading to increased interactions among students amid the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

A record 923 cases were classified as "serious incidents of bullying," an increase of 217 cases (30.7%) from the previous year. Out of the serious bullying cases (923 cases), 357 cases (38.7%) were initially not recognized as bullying. The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) believes that this indicates ongoing challenges in schools' recognition of bullying incidents.

Additionally, the number of students who reported suicide across all schools increased by 43 people compared to the previous year, reaching a serious situation that is close to the record high of 415 people in the 2020 academic year, with a total of 411 students.

For the first time, a survey on "suicide due to corporal punishment and inappropriate instruction by educators," commonly known as "instructional deaths," was conducted, resulting in one case in elementary school and one case in high school.

by Brian Dentry

China to resume visa-exemptions for short-term Japanese travelers

China says it will resume allowing visa-free visits by Japanese nationals on short-term trips from the end of this month. (NHK)

Japan's Agriculture Ministry Urges Nationwide Action to Combat Avian Flu

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries held an emergency meeting to address the rapid outbreak of avian influenza, urging prefectural governments to strengthen hygiene management measures.

Japan Grapples with Poverty and Rising 'Invisible Homeless'

Japan is facing a deepening crisis of poverty and inequality, with rising reports of 'invisible homeless' individuals and growing economic hardships among the population. Discussions over reforms to the country's tax and welfare systems have taken center stage, as policymakers grapple with how to provide meaningful support.

Ueno Toshogu Shrine Shines in Gold with Special Lighting

A special lighting ceremony was held on November 20th at Ueno Toshogu Shrine, located in Ueno Park, Taito Ward, Tokyo. The event featured a unique lighting design created by renowned lighting designer Motoko Ishii.

World's First Fiber Made From Bagworm Silk Revolutionizes Industry

A Japanese pharmaceutical company has announced the successful commercialization of fiber made from silk produced by bagworms.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Education NEWS

History of the Imagawa Clan

In this video we look to examine the complex history of the Imagawa clan. A family which enjoyed a storied history of prominence until their legendary downfall. Yet you may be surprised to learn how they still survived even after the death of Imagawa Yoshimoto at Okehazama! (The Shogunate)

Kirin - The Most Majestic Creature of Japanese Folklore

The Kirin is a mythical Japanese creature, a symbol of prosperity and good luck. It appears in times of transition, such as the birth of leaders, indicating blessings and divine protection. (See U in History / Mythology)

The Most Badass Female Shogun, Hojo Masako

What would you do if you changed from a nobody into one of the most powerful people in the country, overnight? Hojo Masako 北条政子 was the wife of Minamoto no Yoritomo, the founder of Japan’s first shogunate. (Linfamy)

Draw a Stunning Horse with Just Circles! Beginner-Friendly Sketch Technique

Discover how to create a realistic horse sketch using simple circles and ovals! ????In this video, Harumichi Shibasaki guides you step by step, showing how to use pencils, light, and shadow to bring your drawing to life. (Watercolor by Shibasaki)

Teachers in Japan Demand Better Pay and Conditions

Education groups in Japan representing 23 organizations issued an urgent statement criticizing a proposal from the Ministry of Finance to gradually raise the 'teaching adjustment allowance' to 10% as part of work reform measures. The proposal was deemed 'unrealistic,' sparking opposition from educators.