#Japan #Toyonaka #Child Rights #After School NPO #Toyonaka City

A New Chapter in After-School Programs for Children

Toyonaka City has made a significant stride toward enhancing the after-school environment for elementary school children by signing a comprehensive collaboration agreement with the After School NPO, a nonprofit organization based in Bunkyo, Tokyo. This partnership aims to devise solutions for various challenges surrounding after-school activities and to foster environments where children can play an active role in shaping their own spaces.

Objectives of the Agreement

The collaboration focuses on three primary objectives:
1. Enhancing and developing after-school-related initiatives: The agreement seeks to bolster existing programs and introduce new activities that cater to the needs of children during their after-school hours.
2. Creating child-centered spaces: This includes establishing environments where children feel safe and engaged, empowering them to express their preferences and participate in decision-making processes about their own spaces.
3. Ongoing cooperation and collaboration: Both parties are committed to working together to achieve the goals outlined in the agreement, ensuring continuous support and development in areas crucial for children's after-school engagement.

Upcoming Workshops and Training

As part of this initiative, Toyonaka City plans to conduct workshops where children can voice their opinions on how they spend their after-school time. These sessions will be instrumental in gathering direct feedback from the children, providing them with a platform to express their interests and suggest improvements.

Moreover, staff training will be provided focusing on ‘Creating Spaces that Respect Children’s Rights.’ This training is essential as it equips personnel with the necessary skills and understanding to foster an environment that honors children's rights and allows them to thrive. Through this training, staff will learn effective methods to engage children meaningfully and create supportive, nurturing spaces.

Details of the Agreement Signing Ceremony

The signing of the agreement took place on June 30, 2025, from 14:00 to 14:30 at the Toyonaka City Hall, in the first reception room on the third floor of the main building. Key participants included:

• - Kunihiro Hiraida, Executive Director of the After School NPO
• - Shigeki Nagai, Mayor of Toyonaka City
• - Yoshitsugu Iwamoto, Superintendent of Toyonaka City Education

Their collective leadership highlights the commitment of both the local government and the After School NPO to prioritize children's well-being and active participation in their community.

Moving Forward

With this agreement in place, Toyonaka City and the After School NPO are poised to set a benchmark in developing child-centric after-school programs across Japan. By emphasizing children's voices, respecting their rights, and providing them with ample opportunities to engage, this collaboration is set to pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for children. The city is committed to maintaining transparency and will provide updates on the progress of these initiatives through its official website, ensuring the community remains informed and engaged in these vital developments.