The powers that be have enacted legislation that will expand support for higher education, including grants and scholarships for college and trade school students from low-income households. Education experts are suggesting it's time once again to consider who should shoulder the costs.
The law coming into force next April will ensure that tuition fees for eligible students at universities, two-year colleges, specialized training schools and professional training schools will be waived or reduced, and scholarships and grants to cover their living expenses will also be provided.
"We are aiming for a society where people can seize the future by their passion and effort regardless of their households' financial situation," education minister Masahiko Shibayama said as the Diet deliberated the bill.