#Japan #Tokyo #TsunaBi #Jointex #Smart School

Introduction

Jointex Corporation, a subsidiary of Plus Corporation based in Minato, Tokyo, is excited to announce the launch of 'TsunaBi,' a new e-commerce platform tailored specifically for parents at nearly 29,000 primary and middle schools utilizing their 'Smart School' service. The trial operation of TsunaBi will kick off on January 30, 2026, in select regions, with a nationwide rollout scheduled for June of the same year.

The Purpose of TsunaBi

The primary function of TsunaBi is to facilitate parents in purchasing desired educational materials—referred to as 'wish items'—for use in classrooms, including art supplies, calligraphy kits, and sewing sets. Traditionally, many schools still rely on cash transactions for these purchases. This traditional method not only puts parents at risk of losing cash but also adds to the workload of educators who must handle collections and payments. TsunaBi aims to eradicate these issues.

Benefits for Parents and Schools

By using TsunaBi, parents can order and pay for products directly on the website, eliminating the need for students to carry cash to school, alleviating parental concerns. Furthermore, schools will benefit by reducing the burden of cash collection tasks from their faculty. This innovative service is part of Jointex's commitment to enhance educational environments and promote work reforms in schools by collaborating with local smart school vendors.

The Meaning Behind TsunaBi

The name 'TsunaBi' is derived from two Japanese words: 'Tsunagaru,' meaning to connect, and 'Manabi,' which means to learn. This reflects the platform's purpose of linking parents and schools in a more efficient and safe purchasing process for educational materials.

The Process of Utilizing TsunaBi

For Schools (Educators)

1. Choosing Products: Educators will receive propositions from vendors and select suitable products for the classroom.
2. Notifying Parents: Schools will distribute guidelines to parents on how to access TsunaBi through QR codes.
3. Product Confirmation and Distribution: Purchased items will be delivered to the school, where staff will verify and distribute them to students.

For Parents

1. Check Products: Parents will review the product list via the provided QR code on the guidelines issued by the school.
2. Place Order and Payment: Parents can select products, add them to their cart, and choose among three payment methods: credit card, PayPay, or bank transfer, to finalize their order.
3. Receive Products: Purchased items will be handed out by the respective teachers for students to collect.

Products Available

Products offered through TsunaBi include but are not limited to:

• - Art supply sets
• - Calligraphy kits
• - Sewing kits
• - Recorders
• - Keyboard harmonicas
• - Basic school supplies

Service Area and Rollout

TsunaBi will operate on a national level, excluding some remote islands, and will focus on schools that are already associated with regional vendors participating in the Smart School program.

The planned rollout will begin with test operations on January 30, 2026, before expanding to nationwide operations by June 2026.

Conclusion

TsunaBi is set to revolutionize the way parents purchase educational materials, making the process both more convenient and secure, while enhancing the efficiency of school operations. Jointex remains dedicated to improving educational settings through innovative solutions that benefit students, parents, and educators alike, supporting a holistic approach to learning and collaboration.

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