#Japan #Tokyo #Interpreter Training #Japanese Social Work #Deafblind Society

Collaborative Training for Deafblind Interpreters

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Tokyo Deafblind Society (理事長: 藤鹿一之) has partnered with the Japan Social Work University (学長: 横山彰) to launch a training program for interpreters and assistants catering to the needs of the deafblind community. Beginning in April 2026, this program aims to address the critical shortage of young interpreters in Tokyo, where data shows a stark decline in younger registrants over the past decade.

Rising Challenge of Interpreter Shortages

The interpreter and assistant dispatch project in Tokyo has seen a significant drop in participants under 30 years old; from 11% in 2014 to a mere 3% by 2024. This decline raises concerns about meeting the diverse needs of the deafblind individuals who rely on effective communication methods to navigate their daily lives. Thus, it is imperative to encourage young talents equipped with the necessary mental, physical, and intellectual capabilities for this role.

Program Structure

The training program will consist of academic lectures conducted by seasoned faculty from Japan Social Work University paired with practical exercises organized by the Tokyo Deafblind Society. This includes:

• - University Course (Lectures): 15 sessions, each lasting 90 minutes, accumulating a total of 22 hours and 30 minutes.
• - Societal Practice (Exercises and Practical Training): 14 sessions, also lasting 90 minutes each, totaling 21 hours.
• - Total Duration: 43 hours and 30 minutes, aligning closely with similar training programs in Hachioji city.

The practical exercises cover a variety of skills crucial for the job, including mobility assistance (on flat surfaces, stairs, and train boarding), hands-on interpretation practices (shopping and transportation assistance), and technical skill reviews, ensuring students gain valuable real-world experience.

Upon successful completion of the required coursework, attendance, and skill assessments, students will be recommended by the Tokyo Deafblind Society to become registered interpreters and assistants in the Tokyo area.

Key Meeting Highlights

On May 20, 2026, a significant meeting was held between President Yokoyama and Director Fujika, during which President Yokoyama expressed, "It is vital to cultivate practical leaders in welfare who can bridge the deafblind with society and its diverse populace." Director Fujika shared his personal transformation story from total deafblindness in his mid-twenties to finding hope through the support of young interpreters and assistants who provided communication through tactile sign language. He emphasized the critical need for young helpers in fostering a brighter future for the deafblind community.

About the Tokyo Deafblind Society

Established in 1991, this accredited NPO focuses on promoting the self-reliance and social participation of individuals who are both visually and hearing impaired. The organization operates the Tokyo Deafblind Support Center, offering a range of services, including the dispatch and training of interpreters and assistants, consultation support, and individual training programs.

Contact Information

For more information or to get involved, please reach out to the Tokyo Deafblind Society at:

• - Address: 2nd floor, Building Iwadatyo, 87 Iwadamachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
• - Phone: 03-6228-1282 (Weekdays 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM / 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM)
• - Email: [email protected]
• - Website: Tokyo Deafblind Society

This program is a step forward in ensuring that deafblind individuals have the necessary advocate support as they navigate their way in a complex society.