Osaka's Public High Schools Struggle as Private Schools Gain Favor

Mar 26 (News On Japan) - The subsidization of private school tuition is causing a rapid increase in under-enrollment at public high schools in Osaka Prefecture.

This familiar scene at Osaka's public high schools will be seen for the last time this year. Starting next year, the announcement of successful candidates will only be made on the website.

This year, the number of applicants for public high school entrance exams in Osaka was about 2,400 fewer than last year, totaling approximately 36,400. The average competition rate, which was 1.13 times last year, has dropped significantly to 1.05 times this year.

While so-called academic high schools maintained high competition rates, the number of general academic high schools that were under-enrolled increased to 32 out of 75 schools, more than double last year's number (14 out of 78 schools). One possible reason for this is the impact of the "private school tuition subsidization." Starting from the next fiscal year, Osaka Prefecture will gradually introduce full tuition subsidization for high schools, which is believed to be increasing the popularity of private high schools.

According to Osaka Prefecture's ordinance, high schools that are under-enrolled for three consecutive years can be subject to consolidation. This could further accelerate the consolidation of public high schools in the future.

In light of this situation, Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura stated, "It is becoming increasingly necessary for public and private schools to compete and improve. It is important for public schools to aim for better education. I think we are heading in a good direction overall."

Japan Overhauls Weather Alert System

The Japan Meteorological Agency announced it will significantly revamp its disaster-related weather information system from April 28th, introducing a new category called “Danger Warning” in addition to existing warnings and advisories.

Body Found in Kyoto Mountains Confirmed as Missing Boy

The body discovered in a forested area of Nantan, Kyoto Prefecture, on April 12th has been identified as that of Adachi Yuki, an 11-year-old elementary school student who had been missing since March 23rd, with authorities saying the cause of death remains unknown.

Typhoon No. 4 Set to Approach Saipan Before Turning Toward Japan

Typhoon No. 4 (Sinlaku), a large and extremely powerful system, is moving west-northwest over the Mariana Islands and is expected to make its closest approach to Saipan on April 15th while maintaining its intense strength.

Japan Military to Exit Antarctica

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force will withdraw from Antarctic research vessel operations after nearly six decades, with private-sector entities expected to take over following the retirement of the icebreaker Shirase in fiscal 2034.

Shortage of Naphtha-Based Products Expands Across Japan

A growing shortage of products derived from naphtha is beginning to affect everyday industries, as instability surrounding supply routes linked to tensions involving Iran raises concerns across Japan’s economy.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Education NEWS

Ronald McDonald Teaches Children Traffic Safety in Akita

In a traffic safety class held at a certified childcare center in Akita, Ronald McDonald made a special appearance, teaching young children how to cross the street safely.

Tokyo University Students Shy Away From Bureaucratic Careers

The number of Tokyo University students pursuing careers as government bureaucrats is declining, even as rising wages in skilled trades and shifts driven by artificial intelligence are reshaping perceptions of high-paying jobs.

Japan Big Chains Dominate Cram Schools

Japan’s cram school industry is seeing a growing divide, with major operators expanding their market share while smaller firms struggle to survive amid declining birthrates and shifting education trends, according to expert analysis.

Private High Schools in Aichi Gain Popularity

An estimated 800 junior high school third-year students and their parents gathered in Nagoya on April 12th to attend a seminar explaining the structure of high school entrance examinations and preparation strategies ahead of next year’s admissions cycle.

WWII-Era Fighter Aircraft Recovered from Sea Decades After Crash Landing

A former Imperial Japanese Navy fighter aircraft that had remained submerged off the coast of Akune City in Kagoshima Prefecture was raised from the seabed on April 9th, marking its first return to land in 81 years since a wartime crash landing during the final stages of World War II.