The rise in truancy among Japanese students attending schools in the UK has drawn increased attention to the 'Education Behaviour Surveillance Alliance' (EBSA). While the exact reasons behind the heightened absenteeism remain unclear, speculation ranges from academic stress to cultural adaptation challenges. EBSA, a body committed to understanding and combating disruptive school behavior, is now in focus as an organization capable of providing possible solutions, by way of increasing support and intervention.
School absenteeism, known as "futoukou" in Japan, presents a significant challenge to the country’s education system. It is connected to a wide variety of social issues, including bullying, academic pressure, and mental health. The current situation involving Japanese students in the UK is particularly concerning. There is a strong cultural expectation for students studying abroad to succeed, putting enormous pressure on these young individuals.
School truancy is a global problem, not exclusive to Japan. In the UK and the US, multiple support systems and measures are in place to address it, such as the involvement of social workers and educational psychotherapists. Cultural sensitivity and mental health support are prioritized in western countries to mitigate such issues. Efforts are ongoing to adapt and consolidate the best practices from different regions.