Insights from the Visit by Ninan Town Council to Foryuukai's Programs for Foreign Workers

Foryuukai's Commitment to Multiculturalism in Care

On October 2, 2025, the Foryuukai welfare organization, led by Chairman Hiroshi Katori, welcomed the Ninan Town Council from Tottori Prefecture for a detailed inspection of their initiatives aimed at integrating foreign workers into the workforce. This visit focused on understanding how Foryuukai is cultivating a workplace culture that embraces multiculturalism and nurtures talent.

Purpose of the Visit

The main aim of the visit was to aid in discussions on future workforce strategies and policies related to nursing care in Ninan Town. As the country faces an increasing aging population and a shortage of nursing care professionals, it has become essential to explore solutions that include the employment and training of foreign nationals. Foryuukai has been at the forefront of this effort, currently employing 447 foreign workers, constituting about 14.4% of their 3,088 staff members as of September 2025. These employees come with diverse residency qualifications, including EPA candidates, technical interns, and individuals with specified skills.

During the visit, members of the Ninan Town Council had the opportunity to witness these efforts firsthand, gaining insight into how Foryuukai is addressing workforce challenges in a meaningful way.

Highlights of the Inspection

The day of the inspection began with Chairman Katori presenting an overview of Foryuukai's efforts. This was followed by a dialogue with four foreign employees, who shared their personal experiences and reasons for choosing to work in Japan. They discussed the appeal of working in Japan, highlighting aspects like the work environment and opportunities for cross-cultural exchanges.

Foryuukai showcased various initiatives designed to support foreign workers, including welcome parties, cherry blossom viewing events, and training sessions conducted in their native languages. They also emphasized the provision of scheduled time for Japanese language lessons during working hours. Additionally, the organization's internal educational institution, Harumi International University, was mentioned as a platform that provides mentorship and support for foreign staff to nurture their growth.

This engagement allowed the council members to immerse themselves in Foryuukai's multifaceted approach, which ensures that foreign staff can work, learn, and connect in a supportive setting.

Looking Ahead

Foryuukai prides itself on its motto, “Action by Glocalization,” striving to achieve social welfare that roots itself in the local community while embracing an international perspective. By fostering an environment where diverse talents coexist and respect one another, Foryuukai has been able to enhance both the quality of life for users and the professional growth of staff members.

The visit from the Ninan Town Council marked a significant moment in enhancing understanding of these initiatives. Foryuukai is committed to sharing its practices nationwide, promoting a sustainable model of nursing care that is founded on multicultural coexistence.