Yasutomi Tatetsu
VIA24
Japan
Challenge
In the current Japanese education system, I am deeply concerned about the emphasis on overcoming entrance exams and unit-specific tests rather than teaching students the essential skills needed for the real world. This approach hinders students from learning critical skills such as understanding the "why" behind concepts, how to solve problems effectively, and the broader impact on society. As a result, students are ill-prepared for the challenges they will face in their future careers and societal contributions. Additionally, there is a significant educational gap in Okinawa Prefecture where I live. Students in Okinawa often have fewer resources and opportunities compared to their counterparts in other parts of Japan, leading to lower academic performance and fewer prospects for higher education and employment. This educational gap perpetuates socio-economic inequalities and limits the potential of Okinawan youth. The heavy workload on educators is frequently reported in the media, making teaching an unattractive profession. This has led to a shortage of teachers in Okinawa, exacerbating the challenges faced by the education sector. The lack of sufficient teaching staff affects the quality of education and the individual attention each student receives, further widening the educational gap. Furthermore, the disparity in ICT skills among teachers is detrimental to student engagement and curiosity. While some educators are proficient in using technology to enhance learning, others struggle, resulting in inconsistent educational experiences. This digital divide hampers students' ability to explore and satisfy their curiosity, limiting their learning potential and future opportunities. These challenges matter because they affect the overall quality of education, student preparedness for the future, and equitable access to learning opportunities. I believe that addressing these issues collectively as educators is a crucial opportunity to foster a generation that is well-equipped, motivated, and socially conscious, capable of contributing positively to society.