Perhaps the most important thing to know about Dairoku Zuiko Elementary School is that education in Japan has deep roots. Formal education existed since the 6th century. This is when Chinese writing and Buddhism were introduced. In 701, the Taiho Code established schools. These schools were for the children of the nobility. They were in both the capital and the provinces.
Here at Dairoku Zuiko Elementary School, we stand on ground rich with educational heritage. In feudal Japan, lords created schools for samurai. Rural communities ran schools too. These schools were for wealthier merchants and farmers. By the Kamakura period around 1185, samurai children got formal education. The Edo period saw education become widespread. This era had 265 years of peace.
From age 7 to 15, children attended neighborhood temple schools. Buddhist sects ran these schools. They learned to read and write. They also learned to use an abacus. Priests or monks usually taught. Samurai and doctors also taught. There was no set tuition. Students paid what they could. Tokyo’s literacy rate was about 80 percent due to these schools. Rural areas had fewer schools. But people still wanted to learn to avoid tax collector cheating.
Now consider Dairoku Harada. His name reflects his birth year. He was born in the 6th year of the Taisho period. That is why he was named Dairoku. It means six in Japanese. Harada learned archaeology in middle school. He surveyed sites in Itoshima Gun. He later became an archaeologist.
Dairoku Zuiko Elementary School is a place where history meets the present. After World War II, Japan reformed its education system. It was modeled after American schools. The Fundamental Law on Education was enacted in 1947. It defined the current system. This includes six years of elementary school. Then comes three years of junior high and high school. Finally, there is two to four years of university.
Imagine children here at Dairoku Zuiko Elementary School. They carry on a tradition of learning that has shaped Japan. They are taught by dedicated teachers. They are prepared to meet future challenges. The values instilled here will shape their lives.
As you stand before Dairoku Zuiko Elementary School, consider its role in shaping young minds. Education here goes beyond textbooks and classrooms. It prepares students to contribute to society. It fosters a sense of community. The commitment to learning ensures a bright future for all.