Japanese language education is becoming increasingly important for foreign residents living in unfamiliar circumstances in Japan, to allow them to acquire the Japanese language skills they need for daily life, and ensure that they can lead a fulfilling life as a member of the community.
　For this reason, a Japanese Language Education Coordinator has been assigned to the International Exchange and Cooperation Division since May 2020, with the purpose of promoting Japanese language education activities. The coordinator's desk has the logo "Hiroshima City Japanese Language Desk". Yuka Hashimoto, the Japanese Language Education Coordinator, is involved in planning educational programs and providing advice and support for Japanese language schools in regional areas, and conducting coordination and cooperation work with universities and technical colleges involved in Japanese language education.
　This fall a new Japanese language course for beginners will be established. There are also plans to hold an "Easy Japanese" course for foreign residents living in regional areas, and fun events where citizens can enjoy interacting with foreign residents. Information is provided on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/hiroshima.nihongo/).

---

Majored in Japanese language education. Has taught at universities in New Zealand and Costa Rica. Upon returning to Japan, worked as full-time lecturer at Hiroshima International Center, manager of educational affairs at the Support and Communication Center for People Returning from China, before assuming her current position this spring.

---