Hikari JS Mirai Launches New Webinar Series on Japanese Education for Children with Foreign Roots — 1st Session Features Associate Professor Sawada of Tsukuba University

Hikari JS Mirai continues its mission this fiscal year by hosting a webinar series aimed at understanding and reflecting on the environment surrounding children with foreign roots.

The series for the first half of this year explores how Japanese language learning connects to the future lives of these children. Guest speakers from diverse backgrounds, including supporters and individuals directly involved, will delve into the significance of Japanese education through concrete practices and personal experiences.

The first session, scheduled for May 23, will host Associate Professor Hiroko Sawada of the University of Tsukuba. She will introduce Japanese language support initiatives for children with foreign roots in Ibaraki Prefecture. The session will examine how these prefecture-wide efforts, conducted in collaboration with local governments, boards of education, and schools, are structured and what they aim to achieve. Under the theme 'Connecting to the Future,' the webinar reevaluates the role of Japanese education as a foundation for career choices and self-realization.

Furthermore, the session highlights the changes brought about by involving the surrounding community and the growth experienced by student volunteers. It aims to explore the possibilities of Japanese language education involving diverse stakeholders through practical examples.

● Date/Time: Saturday, May 23, 2026, 20:30–21:30 (JST) ● Fee: Free (Optional donations accepted upon registration) ● Registration: https://hikarijsmirai202605.peatix.com/ ● Venue: Online (Zoom) *Archive streaming will be available. Viewing instructions will be sent within one day after the live session.

[Speaker Profile] Associate Professor Hiroko Sawada, University of Tsukuba Specializes in sociolinguistics and Japanese language education. Engages in supporting Japanese education for children with foreign roots through partnerships with government and schools, exploring language education in a multicultural society from both field and research perspectives.

[Host Organization] Hikari JS Mirai (General Incorporated Association) Established in April 2022. With the motto 'Connecting people for the future,' the organization provides Japanese language classes and operates events/seminars for children with foreign roots.