After Sumo wrestling practice and then breakfast, we went to our informational sessions. Our first speaker was Tsutomu Kimura, president of the National Institution for Academic Degrees. He spoke to us about the status of the education system in Japan. In Japan students are not required to attend high school. It was interesting to find that 97% of them continue their education. I am not sure the percentage would be as high in the United States.
Our second speaker was Takahiro Mayo a professor from the International University of Japan. He spoke to us on Japan's economy. I had heard of the "Big Mac" economy test, but it was interesting that he compared Japan, China, and the United States. If you are not aware of the theory, check it out on wikipedia. He made it clear that because of the declining Japanese population has lead to a decline in the Japanese economy while the Chinese economy is booming.
The last presenters were from the House Representatives in the Diet. You may remember the photos from our tour of Tokyo. Wakako Hironaka, new female representative and Yuji Tsushima, a veteran 33 year member. It was interesting to hear them share their perspectives of the social concerns of Japan. Wakako's position is a relatively new concept in Japanese culture. She is one of the first women to be given such authority. Her advice to women of Japan and to all women who wish to pursue positions of power or to be an active member in society is to practice the "3 C's"- Competence- continue to build on your strengths for her it is to continue her education and practice of the English language; Camaraderie- women need to assist each other and support one another instead of competing; Common Professional Culture- women must practice good moral and ethical decision making and to have a high level of character.
The day ended with a group of us catching a subway to Ikeburo for a Lantern Festival. Words can not describe the sights, sounds, and smells of the evening check out the video.
( a section of town that we were recommended not to visit, oops)
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4 comments:
hey!~ How are you doing??????????????? I'm chillen taking it one day at a time everthing giong good on are end school doing okay we have a halloween constat coming up soon there a lot of people very looking for to it................... i hope you have a good hallween .................. talk to u later Ms.farris................ love your student regina jackson
hey ms farris,
happy haloween!!!
Hi Stella, our wildfires are over so I can appreciate the glowing lights of the lantern festival. I loved the big octopus lookin' thing. The chanting-like songs were neat to hear. Why did you say it was a bad part of town? Just curious.
I miss Ms. Farris!!! The 9th grade English team was all talking about how much we depend on you, and need you back! Hope you are having a great time and learning lots of great things to share-thanks for sharing with the blog!
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