Home > Policy > White Paper, Notice, Announcement > White Paper > JAPANESE GOVERNMENT POLICIESIN EDUCATION, SCIENCE, SPORTSAND CULTURE1998 > FOREWORD

In the coming twenty-first century,in order to develop Japan as a country with vitality,and to aim for a nation based on creativity of science and technology and a culturallyoriented nation,the promotion of education,science,sports and culture,which is abasis of central government,is extremely important.Moreover,allowing the childrenwho will shoulder responsibility for future generations to grow up strong and emot-ionally rich is crucial in creating a clear vision of Japan toward the twenty-firstcentury.The Ministry of Education,Science,Sports and Culture(MESSC)conductscontinuous reviews in all areas of education,science,sports and culture,and advancesvarious reforms which respond to the changes in this era.In order to introduce theseeducational policies to the general public,MESSC has been publishing JapaneseGovernment Policies in Education,Science,Sports and Culture every year since1988.

In the1998edition of Japanese Government Policies in Education,Science,Sportsand Culture,the beginning section explains the introduction of trends in educationalreform,which are being advanced with the utmost effort along the lines of the Programfor Educational Reform,first introduced in1997and twice revised since then.

Part I is a special feature entitled"Mental and Physical Health and Sports."The feature reflects the increasing importance of the role of health-related learning and sports,from the perspective that promoting mental and physical health and leading a healthylife full of energy is essential.The feature describes views and policies for the publicto acquire accurate knowledge about health and for them to live happily and healthilywhile enjoying sports.

Part II,while respecting trends in educational reform,describes the main content ofeducational policies in each respective field of education,science and culture.

I hope that this report will enhance your understanding of the Government's currentpolicies concerning education,science,sports and culture.

October1998     Akito Arima  Minister of Education,Science,Sports and Culture