The Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) is considering implementing a system of granting degrees to students who graduate from technical colleges. Currently, these students are only awarded a diploma. The initiative is geared towards equating their qualification with university graduates. The move, still in deliberation, aims to improve the career prospects of technical college graduates and acknowledge the rigor of their studies.

In Japan, education is highly valued with a strong emphasis on formal qualifications. Technical colleges provide valuable education in various professional fields but are often overlooked compared to universities. This reform is seen as a significant step towards boosting the education system. Japanese society is likely to perceive this positively, given the traditional respect for knowledge and accreditation.

In the U.S. and EU, technical colleges or community colleges often do grant degrees (Associate degrees, in particular), acknowledging the quality and relevance of the education they provide. They are seen as alternatives to universities, often preparing students for specific trades or careers.