#Japan #Tokyo #Education #Toyo Gakuen University #Public Lectures

Toyo Gakuen University to Host Public Lectures on Education and Future Society

Toyo Gakuen University, located in Bunkyo, Tokyo, is set to launch a series of six free public lectures titled "Questioning Today’s Education; Reconnecting Future Society" starting May 17, 2025. The lectures will be held in a hybrid format, combining both in-person and online participation, making them accessible to a wider audience.

The lectures aim to address pressing topics related to the future of education across primary, secondary, and higher education, reflecting contemporary social issues such as school absenteeism, social isolation, political disengagement, and inequality. The overarching goal is to examine how Japan’s educational framework can respond to the unique needs of its children and society as a whole.

Overview of the Event

• - Dates: May 17, May 31, June 7, June 28, July 19, July 26, 2025
• - Time: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
• - Participants: Open to everyone
• - Cost: Free
• - Format: In-person at Toyo Gakuen University, 1-26-3 Hongo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, or via Zoom webinar
• - Registration: Interested participants can sign up through the registration form on the university's website before the day prior to each lecture.

On-site registration will also be available.

• - Support: Sponsored by the Bunkyo Academy Foundation.

The series will kick off with a focus on elementary education, addressing the rise in school absenteeism among children in the Reiwa era. The first session will explore this phenomenon with insights from experts involved in education support. Participants will learn about available resources and support systems, including alternative arrangements like online free schools. Special emphasis will be placed on the perspective that school absenteeism should not be viewed merely as a behavioral issue.

Detailed Program

Theme: Questioning Today’s Education; Reconnecting Future Society

• - First Session: "School Absenteeism among Children in the Reiwa Era" - Participants will examine the complexities of absenteeism in contemporary education and the societal factors at play. The session includes discussions on approaches for supporting children and families during challenging times. Featuring speaker Kouta Nakamura, a lecturer from the Faculty of Human Sciences at Toyo Gakuen University.

• - Second Session (May 31): “Parenting from DoReMi” will be led by Tomoe Miyaguchi, representing the Child Resource Center, outlining the importance of creating a stable foundation for children by supporting parents who have experienced difficulties.

• - Third Session (June 7): The focus will shift to secondary education, examining the roles of individuality and politics in education today, led by Kazuki Ishiguro from NPO Seishun Kichi.

• - Further Lectures: Additional sessions are scheduled exploring hierarchical models of innovation in higher education and well-being in personal and professional life, featuring speakers from diverse backgrounds including business leaders and education professionals.

By participating in these public lectures, attendees not only gain insights into educational challenges but also engage in a broader dialogue about societal responsibility in nurturing the next generation. The university’s initiative underscores the importance of lifelong learning and community involvement in shaping a resilient and informed society.

Note: Updates about potential changes to the format or content due to unforeseen circumstances will be communicated through the university's official website.