Panel proposes Japanese language schools in over 100 places worldwide

Thursday, June 21, 2007 at 05:00 EDT

TOKYO ? An advisory panel to Foreign Minister Taro Aso proposed Wednesday that Japanese language schools be set up in more than 100 locations worldwide within two to three years in a bid to boost Japan's global profile. The move is part of a set of proposals presented by the panel, known as the Overseas Exchange Council, to Aso to raise worldwide interest in Japan's language and culture in the wake of a growing Chinese language boom.
The 17-member council is led by Toyota Motor Corp Chairman Fujio Cho and tasked with seeking ways to market Japan to the world. Under a franchise formula, the Japan Foundation will cooperate with a local educational institution. The foundation will provide instructors and curriculum, and the local institution will take charge of finance and operational matters. In 2003, the number of people studying Japanese worldwide was 2.35 million, according to a foundation survey. (Kyodo News)

I would be all for more language school. Even though I find it hard to learn a language (difficulty and my laziness) I always wanted to be able to speak many languages. So I don't have to wait for subs to come out to understand a drama/movie. I can't exactly wait for an universal translator can I.

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I just can't help myself. Risk it all with me.