#Japan #Kunitachi #Recovery School #Manayama Association

Kunitachi's Recovery School Initiative

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) of Japan has entered into a commission with the Manayama Association to spearhead the "Recovery School @ Kunitachi", marking the beginning of its third year of operation. This innovative project strives to foster inclusive community learning regardless of individual differences.

Overview of the Project

The agreement, which began on May 23, 2025, facilitates the promotion of lifelong learning support for people with disabilities as part of the Ministry's overarching goal. In partnership with the Kunitachi City Public Hall, the revamped initiative aims to establish a unique inclusive learning environment in Kunitachi City, Tokyo, encouraging collective living and engagement through the aptly named program, "Recovery School @ Kunitachi" (RGK).

The year’s educational calendar includes various workshops, starting with the comprehensive course titled "Cultivating Relationships: A Journey Through Dialogue and Practice" set to launch on June 20, 2025. Moreover, it promises a series of lectures to be conducted until February 2026. During this period, an activity report documenting the previous year’s successes will be published, culminating in a conference co-hosted by MEXT to further their vision for an inclusive society.

What is the Recovery School?

The RGK project draws inspiration from models like the "Recovery College" and "Recovery School." The Recovery College initiative, which originated in the UK, has seen emerging practices across Japan in recent years. This initiative aims to improve citizen mental health by creating an environment where individuals with mental health challenges can collaboratively work towards a vibrant community life. Here, the focus is on transcending the supporter-supported dichotomy and fostering mutual learning.

In contrast, the Recovery School that began in Chofu City, Tokyo, goes a step further, holding discussions focused on participants' lived experiences and selections from the text "Textbook for Recovery School" (EDITEX, 2012). This initiative offers a dialogue-based learning environment that integrates the narratives of those with mental health experiences, aiming for a fulfilling life despite adversities.

Principles of Inclusivity

The RGK program emphasizes the significance of "Recovery" not as a mere restoration from symptoms or disabilities, but rather as an approach to thriving in life despite existing struggles. It promotes the understanding of plurality through collaborative relationships to combat social isolation in communities.

The core principle of this endeavor—"Kyoudo"—seeks to bolster collaboration, unity, and interactions among varied participants. Regardless of differing backgrounds, all individuals engaged in this project exist in equal standing, intending to cultivate sustainable relationships through participation.

Strategic Communications and Partnerships

Kunitachi City, governed by the principles of social inclusion, has established a comprehensive "Well-being Urban Development Strategy". This strategy marks the foundation for promoting societal health and inclusivity. The RGK initiative aligns seamlessly with the city’s ideologies and is set to collaborate with relevant municipal departments, potentially enhancing the project's impacts through synergistic collaborations.

Partnerships, especially with Kunitachi City Public Hall—an established entity in supporting lifelong learning for individuals with disabilities—are expected to foster community-wide effects through active program participation.

Upcoming Courses for 2025

1. Recovery School Course (7 sessions)
Participants will explore their shared challenges of life's difficulties in a supportive environment rather than a conventional classroom. This course encourages sharing personal insights and experiences through group interactions based on the curricular material, "Textbook for Recovery School - A Fulfilling Life Despite Mental Disorders".

2. Seminar on Cultivating Relationships (6 sessions)
This course centers on evaluating one’s approach towards relationships through dialogue—focused on understanding both oneself and others.

3. Sporting Activities: Diversity Soccer (3 sessions)
By leveraging soccer as a medium, this program invites individuals from diverse backgrounds to engage and learn together, facilitating a shared exploration of connection through play.

4. Collective Expression and Interaction Learning (approximately 5 sessions)
Harnessing participants' aspirations for co-created projects, with plans to announce further details through the RGK website and newsletters.

Achievements and Recognition

As of the previous fiscal year, RGK marked notable accomplishments with 26 implemented sessions, reaching a participation of approximately 417 individuals, demonstrating a significant increase from the previous year. The initiative's efforts received media attention through various platforms, further amplifying awareness about the importance of inclusive education.

In summary, the "Recovery School @ Kunitachi" embodies a forward-thinking model of education and community enrichment, paving the way for a more inclusive society.