A joint project between The Japan Times and Hosei University in Tokyo is helping students learn reporting skills for an English-language publication.

The newspaper's working title is the Hosei Herald. It aims to give undergraduates practical experience in journalism and a chance to strengthen their foreign-language skills.

The classes require students to discuss themes, develop story ideas and write. One of their tutors is Mutsuko Murakami, a lecturer in journalism at International Christian University and a former reporter for English-language media, including Time Inc.'s Asiaweek magazine.