Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held the 13th meeting of the Council for the Implementation of Education Rebuilding at the Prime Minister's Office.

During the meeting, discussion took place on the future of connections among high schools and universities, and university entrance examinations.

The Prime Minister said in his opening address,

"Today, based on the discussions carried out so far, I would like the Council to review the draft of the fourth proposal regarding the future of connections between high school education and university education and the screening process for university applicants.
With regard to the connections among high schools and universities, despite various things being pointed out about it, this is something that is still awaiting fundamental reform.
We cannot afford to lose the chance to develop the capabilities of young people during this valuable stage of their lives because universities admit students based only on paper exams or admit students regardless of academic ability.
The orientation of the screening process for university applicants must be shifted towards evaluating and judging the abilities and motivation of students in a multifaceted and comprehensive manner.
At the same time, another issue facing high schools is the question of how to maintain the quality of education.
It is not an overstatement to say that the reform of the screening process for university applicants will shape the direction of education in Japan. Furthermore, this will have a significant impact on children and their parents and guardians.
I would like to ask for the cooperation of Council members in compiling recommendations towards bold reform and careful implementation which look ahead to the future of Japan."