Record number of students in Japan need help learning Japanese

A government survey shows that 84,759 students at public schools in Japan required support for learning Japanese as of May 2025.

The figure marks a record high for students needing Japanese language assistance at public elementary, junior high, high, and special needs schools.

The survey was conducted by the education ministry and covers support requirements among children, including those from expat families.

Data collection focused on the period ending in May 2025, highlighting ongoing needs in language education across the country.

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