http://www.japantoday.com/jp/ news/425041
Gov't considering Japanese ability as visa requirement for long-term residents
TOKYO — "Japan is considering adding Japanese language requirement for foreign nationals seeking entry visas for long-term residency and when renewing their visas, Foreign Minister Masahiko Komura said Tuesday. Komura cited reasons such as the need for foreigners to be able to speak Japanese to fit into the Japanese society."
In one of my posts about our experiences in Thailand, I mentioned how surprised I felt at the WELCOME we received. No such thing exists in Japan. On the contrary, foreigners are urged to assimilate as quickly as possible, yet are constantly reminded that we can never be Japanese. Even Korean immigrants, who have lived in Japan for multiple generations, are considered "foreign residents" and must go through special procedures for exit and entry of the country. On the whole Japan is inaccessible, unwelcoming, and expensive. Ug.
Interestingly, however, this policy which the government is "considering" is in direct contrast with another possibility which has been debated for decades among governmental and educational policy-makers. It has been proposed that the Japan declare two official languages: Japanese and English. This is in recognition of the economic advantage it might give Japanese citizens and companies, to acknowledge English as an oft-used worldwide language for business, trade, and education. If the decision is made to add English as another official language, then nation-wide the Education system will need to refocus efforts toward teaching in English. Currently, junior high students attend three English classes per week (approximately the same number as Math and Science). In order to reach a national goal of increasing English speakers, something will need to change. I can write, in another post, some of the things I observe which deter students from learning and using English. But that is another rant.
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