Concerns Grow Over Japan’s Declining Overseas Travel and Its Impact on Future Competitiveness
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A recent report by the British Council highlights Japan’s “lacklustre” growth in outbound travel, emphasising that it may have significant implications for the country’s future competitiveness and youth development.
Despite a partial recovery to 83% of pre-Covid levels in study abroad participation, overall Japanese overseas travel remains at just 60%. This decline has led stakeholders to caution against conflating travel abroad with study abroad, a sector that continues to see strong demand.
High costs, inflation in host countries, and the depreciation of the yen have been identified as barriers to studying abroad. However, Japanese students remain committed, opting for shorter study periods or choosing more affordable destinations like the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Korea.
Tatsuhiko Hoshino, executive secretary of JAOS (Japan Association of Overseas Studies), noted that despite these challenges, the number of Japanese students studying abroad rose by 218% compared to last year, aided by increased government support and scholarships. The Japanese government has set ambitious targets to send 500,000 students abroad by 2033.
“Simply increasing scholarships and holding study abroad fairs won’t achieve these goals. A more proactive approach from universities and reforms in English education are needed,” added Hoshino.
With passport ownership rates dropping from 24% in 2019 to 17% in 2023, Japan’s outbound mobility continues to face scrutiny. To counter this trend, proposals such as offering free passports to 18-year-olds are being discussed to boost both travel and study abroad initiatives.
The future of Japan’s global engagement hinges on creating a more supportive environment for its students to explore educational opportunities overseas.
Source: THE PIE NEWS
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