Japan Introduces Community-Based Support System for Children Refusing to Attend School
In Japan, a pilot program will be launched in April 2025 to establish community-based support systems for children who refuse to attend school. The program came to light following a government study revealing that around 300,000 elementary and junior high school students had refused to attend school over the past two years, with reasons such as bullying being a major factor.
The project, to be implemented in approximately 20 municipalities, will offer counseling services to children and their parents, refer them to relevant organizations, and help them form social connections. The municipalities participating in the pilot program will receive subsidies of up to ¥10 million ($66,600). Experienced coordinators will guide children to medical and social services, as well as to privately run free schools, depending on their needs. In addition, collaboration with free schools will aim to improve children's life habits and interpersonal relationships, while transportation support will also be provided.
For high school students, some models will offer opportunities for interactions with local residents and work experience, with the goal of developing communication skills that will be beneficial for their future careers.
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