Martial arts will become a required subject for both boys and girls in junior high school from April. Schools can choose the type of a martial art they teach. Many schools are expected to choose judo because other martial arts such as kendo and sumo require special equipment or facilities.
Many students have died on account of injuries they suffered while playing judo. Not all physical education teachers are judo experts. Many of them may not be able to teach students even basic skills to protect themselves from injuries. Because of this situation, there is great concern by both parents and teachers.
The Education Ministry should rethink the introduction of judo to junior high schools. If it introduces judo, it should only teach students judo-related manners and ukemi (the skill to protect oneself when falling) and should strictly refrain from teaching them waza (aggressive techniques).
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