JQA Sponsors Career Education Material 'Oshigoto Nenkan 2026' for Elementary and Junior High School Students

The Japan Quality Assurance Organization (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President: Hiaki Ishii) has sponsored 'Oshigoto Nenkan 2026,' a career education material for elementary and junior high school students published by The Asahi Shimbun Company and Asahi Student Newspaper Co., and has been featured under the theme 'Jobs that Support the Foundation of Society.'

'Oshigoto Nenkan' is an educational publication that introduces the work of over 110 leading Japanese companies and organizations through engaging illustrations and diagrams. It answers fundamental questions that even adults wonder about—such as 'Why do we sweat?' and 'Is the forest shrinking?'—with clear explanations from professionals working on-site. Since its launch in 2016, it has gained popularity as an enjoyable and informative career education resource for young students. JQA has been a sponsor since 2022.

This year, JQA addresses the question: 'How can robots safely deliver goods?'—highlighting its role as a third-party conformity assessment body ensuring the safety of service robots.

JQA Feature Page

In recent years, service robots such as delivery robots have been increasingly adopted to address challenges like aging populations and labor shortages. For robots to be safely and reliably used in society, it is essential not only that the products themselves are safe but also that risks during operation are managed and appropriate rules are established.

This article, centered on delivery robots, clearly explains JQA’s broad involvement—from safety verification and review during product design and development to safety measures during actual use. It also introduces JQA’s certification activities supporting product safety and quality, including the JIS Mark certification system.

JQA hopes this feature will help inspire children and students in their future career choices. Moving forward, JQA will continue to advance as a professional in testing and certification, contributing to a safe and secure society.

Oshigoto Hakubutsukan: A Web Media Platform Delivering Career Education

(Past features can be viewed here)

'Oshigoto Nenkan 2024'

Jobs that Support the Foundation of Society: 'Is it true that there’s proof a company’s system is “well-organized”?'

This edition introduced the work of the Management Systems Division, explaining the ISO 9001 audits that certify whether a company operates under proper systems.

'Oshigoto Nenkan 2023'

Jobs that Support the Foundation of Society: 'Are everyday electrical appliances really safe?'

This edition covered the work of the Comprehensive Product Safety Division, introducing systems and initiatives designed to prevent accidents involving household electrical appliances.

'Oshigoto Nenkan 2022'

Jobs that Support the Foundation of Society: 'How is an accurate “one meter” verified?'

This edition introduced the work of the Metrology and Measurement Division, explaining how the accuracy of measuring instruments is verified.

[Japan Quality Assurance Organization (JQA)]

Established in 1957, JQA is a fair and neutral third-party conformity assessment body consistently supporting the development of Japan’s manufacturing and service industries. It is currently the leading certification body in Japan in terms of total audits conducted for management system standards such as ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 (※). As a provider of national metrology standards to industry, JQA also operates as one of Japan’s largest calibration bodies, offering calibration services across a wide range of instruments. Furthermore, as an accredited body for domestic and international regulations and certification schemes, JQA conducts safety certification and testing for electrical products, medical devices, and automotive equipment, as well as JIS Mark certification. It also provides testing and inspection of construction materials and evaluates corporate activities aimed at achieving goals such as carbon neutrality, offering a diverse portfolio of services.

※ Based on JQA survey as of March 2026.