The current Central Council for Education was established within MEXT on January 6, 2001 as part of the administrative reform of the central government. It readjusts and integrates the functions of the Lifelong Learning Council, Science Education and Industrial Education Council, Curriculum Council, Education Personnel Training Council, University Council, and the Health and Physical Education Council. The Council was based on the Central Council for Education established by the former Ministry of Education (Figure 1-6).
The main function of the Council is to respond to inquiries from the Minister and to examine and deliberate on important matters related to such goals as promoting education, lifelong learning, and sports. The Council is comprised of committee members from academia, temporary committee members, and expert committee members.
Five subdivisions (Subdivision on Educational System, Subdivision on Lifelong Learning, Subdivision on Elementary and Secondary Education, Subdivision on Universities, and Subdivision on Sports and Youth) have been established under the Council, with a system set to conduct deliberations on specific issues. In addition, the Council and its subdivisions can establish subcommittees as needed.
▲The 53rd General Meeting of the Central Council for Education (Chairman Yasuhiko Torii delivering a report to Minister Kosaka)
▲Greeting from Minister Kosaka at the General Meeting of the Central Council for Education