Home > Policy > White Paper, Notice, Announcement > White Paper > JAPANESE GOVERMENT POLICICIES IN EDUCATION, SCIENCE AND CULTURE 1994 > PART II Chapter 10 Section 2 1

With the trend toward internationalization, the development of abilities and qualities that will enable Japanese citizens to earn the trust of the international community has become an important priority in school education. The promotion of education for international understanding and respect for Japanese traditions and culture are identified as basic policies under the new Courses of Study, and the content of subjects has been enhanced accordingly. Efforts are also being made in the context of educational activities outside subjects, such as special activities. Examples include sister-school exchange activities with schools overseas and regional international exchange activities.

Universities and junior colleges are increasing the number of faculties and departments relating to international activities. For example, in fiscal 1994 there were 82 university departments with names featuring the word international.

In social education, international understanding is being addressed in a variety of courses, including youth classes, women's classes, home education classes, and lectures for adults. Since fiscal 1993 the Ministry of Education, Science and Culture has been implementing regional international exchange programs that promote studies and exchange projects for international understanding on a comprehensive basis and contribute to the formation of new communities.