Seven American teachers participated in the 2024 Study Tour to Japan. The lectures and visits during the nine-day program were intended to explore the underlying causes of economic and social disparities and inequalities that lead to divisions in our societies.

The teachers learned about Japanese corporations at Tokyo Stock Exchange, INC., Astellas Pharma Inc., CANON INC., Kikkoman Corporation, TOPPAN Holdings INC., Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc. and Dai-ichi Life Holdings. Representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs briefed the teachers on U.S.-Japan relations, the Japanese economy, and Japan’s role in free trade in Asia, while representatives from Keio University, Tokyo Gakugei University, and Hiroo Gakuen presented on Japanese primary, secondary, and higher education. Former Ambassador to the U.S. Ichiro Fujisaki gave a comprehensive overview of his ideas about the opportunities and challenges facing Japanese society. Former Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda met with the teachers and shared his views on the importance of democracy and grassroots activities like this program.

At Tokyo Metropolitan Ryogoku Junior-Senior High School, the teachers introduced their states to classes of third grade junior high students who will be studying abroad in Utah for two weeks this summer. The students previewed their end-of-program performances for the teachers as well as presenting a hands-on ikebana workshop. At Yamate Gakuin High School, teachers observed Japanese social studies classes and learned about the international experiences available to the students. Teachers from North America and Tokyo had an engaging discussion on issues in education, from absenteeism and supporting students with varying needs, to teacher workload and curriculum content.

The program concluded with a seminar entitled “The Future of Education and the Role of Businesses in Addressing Disparities and Inequalities,” attended by many of the representatives who had given presentations earlier in the week and other Keizai Koho Center members. After a presentation on “Politics Reflected by Economic Disparities in the U.S.” by Dr. Tsuneo Watanabe, Senior Fellow, Sasakawa Peace Foundation, each of the teachers presented a snapshot of how disparities and inequalities in their communities affects their students’ education.