A Scenario for the Development and Management of Student Support National Federation of University Cooperative Associations in Japan President Prof. Kokichi SHOJI

CONTENTS 1.Characteristics of Japanese higher education and student support 2.Outline of university cooperatives in Japan 3.Role of university cooperative in higher education 4.Conclusion

1-1 Number of Japanese universities and students (2007) Number of universities Number of students NationalPublicPrivateTotal University Junior College College of Technology Total (000s) NationalPublicPrivateTotal University Graduate School Junior College College of Technology Total

1-2 Characteristics of Japanese higher Education National and public universities turned into independent administrative entities in 2004 Burden on public funds much lower than the OECD nations average Declining population of 18 year olds due to falling birthrate Universalizing universities, percentage of students going on to university now 50%

1-3 Outline of student support in Japan Government Financial support (student loans only) Overseas student support (provision of accommodation, scholarships etc.) The universities’ measure Development of facilities such as cafeteria, shop, sale of textbook Construction and management of residence, accommodation introductions Career development, job-seeking support, part-time job introductions Health management, counseling and other activities

1-4 Issues in student support in Japan Improving the support for students in financial difficulty Addressing difficulties in finding work, and improving occupational skills Improving academic ability and basic social skills Acceptance of overseas students Credit exchanges with other Asian universities etc.

2-1 Outline of university cooperatives Consumer cooperative composed of the constituent members of the university (students and teaching staff). Each of these posses a corporate status and run the cooperative. Operate stores, cafeterias and book and travel outlet etc. on-campus. Conduct student learning support, and arranging and introducing accommodation for student near the campus. Play a major role by being involved in student service and support

2-2 The nationwide organization of university cooperatives in Japan There are 210 university cooperatives in Japan, and when all the other organizations are included the nationwide organization (NFUCA) consists of 228 members There are 1200 universities in Japan, a total of 2.85 million students, and a university cooperative membership of 1.3 million. NFUCA conducts member support, lobbying, public relations activities, joint purchasing and mutual-aid insurance, and international activities

3 Role of university cooperatives in higher education Study & Research Support Career development Scholarship and student loan Arranging accommodation Provision of textbook & teaching materials Physical & mental health maintenance Shop & cafeteria Overseas student support Campus community ／ Personal life Raising study & research standards Employment after graduation Acquiring external funding Collaboration with local communities Filling enrollment quotas Reducing drop-outs Accepting overseas students and sending Japanese students abroad Making universities attractive Support for student growth Learning & career support Encouraging friendship Providing study equipment Support for healthy eating Habit Contracted work for university University COOP activity Student support Issue at university

４ conclusion Workshop hosted in Japan and Asia on the theme of student support We hope to promote interaction between student affair organizations and bodies across the world for the sake of student growth and the enrichment of student support Thank you for listening to my presentation