Disability and Japan: From Pre-modern Period to the Present

 

This talk will provide insights into Japanese history, culture, and educational systems through the lens of "disability."

 

Firstly, it will offer an overview of the historical evolution of education for the children and individuals with disabilities in Japan, spanning from the pre-modern period (Meiji Era) to the present day, including actual conditions, systems, and policies. Since the late 1990s, Japan has been moving towards "inclusion" and "inclusive education," aligning with global trends. However, due to Japan's cultural, historical, and social context, elements of the old system, such as segregated treatment and education, have persisted.

 

Lastly, the talk will address the current state of "Japanese-style inclusive education" and highlight the challenges that Japan continues to confront in this regard.

 

 

Yuri Geshi is a Visiting Professor in the Asian Institute at the Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy. She is also an Associate Professor at the Ryutsu Keizai University in Japan. She completed her MA and PhD in Disability Sciences at the University of Tsukuba.She has published many works studying the cases of the persons with disabilities from the view of welfare programs, educational systems, and social policy. She is currently doing a comparative exploration of Japan and Canada with regard to policy problems associated with the people with intellectual disabilities.