The State of Education in Japan

A Report to the United Nations

Japan is a country that is known for its high-quality educational system. It boasts the highest rate
of literacy in the world, along with nearly unparalleled mathematics, technological, and science
skill. Education is a top priority in Japan.

Statistics:
School duration expectancy: 15 years
Educational Budget: 3.8% of GDP
Unemployment ages 15-24: 5.9%
retrieved from cia.gov factbook

100% Enrollment rate in compulsory

grades, approaching 0% illiteracy
(Mandrapa 2015)

United Nations Priorities

1) Japan effectively meets the first
priority of the United Nations: to put

Rate of Secondary Education (Male & Female): 99%

in 2003

every child in school. With the highest rate of literacy in the world, as well as a 99.2% net
enrollment rate for secondary education, Japan has one of the most educated workforces in the
world. This high rate of education is reflected in their economy, as well as other aspects of
Japanese life.
2) Along with the high percentage of the population thats educated, Japan also has high quality
education. Japanese schools attempt to educate students in all walks of life, which includes
home economics (sewing, cooking, etc.), physical education, fine arts (such as calligraphy), and

many other subjects. A high percentage of students attend after-school programs, and there is a
very low rate of repeated grades. (Mandrapa 2015)
3) Japans educational system also helps to foster global citizenship. There is a unique culture in
Japanese schools that help to develop values for each student. They are taught to respect their
peers, as well as the educators. Technology is rampant in Japan schooling, a necessary addition
in this technologically advanced world. Peace and welcoming others are core values taught in
most Japanese homes and schools.

A Look at Japanese Education

Retrieved from Thomas B. Fordham Institute

Educational setup/age distribution. From

Wordpress

What makes Japanese education so effective? The biggest difference seen when compared to
other countries is the students level of motivation. Students are encouraged to succeed at very
young ages, making it so they apply themselves in school. Furthermore, the way the educational
system is set up fosters a healthy learning environment. An example of this is the way students
eat lunch in their classrooms in order to build relationships. Also, students are expected to show

respect to others; they stand when they give answers and address their teacher in a formal way.
Overall, the Japanese education system effectively meets the United Nations priorities.