Japan Unveils Plans to Breathe New Life Into Its Higher Education Institutions
Japan is addressing its labor shortage and aging population by revitalizing its higher education sector. The government, led by Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, plans to attract 400,000 international students by 2033, increasing funding for elite universities and easing residency and work restrictions for foreigners. This strategy aims to strengthen Japan's position in the competitive global education market and counter the declining birth rate and an aging workforce. The country faces a decline in PhD candidates, with a 20% drop over the past decade, impacting Japan's global share of doctoral students. This decline is attributed to the limited job prospects and equal salaries regardless of educational level, making higher degrees less appealing. There's also a gender imbalance in academia, with slow promotion rates for women, partly due to Japan's employment system prioritizing group harmony over individual skills.
To boost research output, Japan is investing in its universities, including a ¥10 trillion fund to create an Ivy League-like system, with Tōhoku University being a key beneficiary. This funding aims to attract young talent and support innovative research. Additionally, there are plans to improve mental health services and increase university support roles. The government also addresses language barriers, as most research and teaching are traditionally conducted in Japanese. Efforts are underway to offer more English-taught courses and encourage English communication to attract global talent.
Japan's strategy mirrors efforts in South Korea and Taiwan, where governments seek to increase international student numbers and provide more support, including scholarships, especially in STEM fields. These initiatives reflect a regional response to demographic challenges and the need for economic development.