Message from the French Embassy to parents of students

Dear Parents,

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced on May 4, 2020 the extension of the state of emergency across Japan until May 31. He confirmed the maintenance in “special vigilance” of the 13 prefectures which correspond to the big cities of the country. As you know, Tokyo and Kyoto are part of it. In a largely decentralized system, local authorities in Tokyo and Kyoto have announced that schools will remain closed until the end of the month, in order to better prepare for welcoming students in conditions that will have to follow the latest recommendations. from the Japanese Ministry of Education (MEXT), with a view to a gradual and partial resumption of school activities, including a reduction in class sizes.

Also, in agreement with the French Embassy, the Consulate General of France in Kyoto and after consultation with the AEFE, it was decided to comply with the schedule adopted by the local authorities in Tokyo and Kyoto, according to terms which will take into account the specificities of the two establishments.

This deadline will make it possible to set up, in collaboration with the entire school community and the social dialogue bodies of our establishments, an organization that respects health safety requirements in order to be able to welcome students in the best possible way. conditions. We know how much this extension of distance education is weighing on families, but rest assured that everything is being done to make it happen in the best of circumstances.

We also know that some families are affected by the economic consequences of the health crisis. At the initiative of the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs and the AEFE, the deadline for submitting scholarship applications, which families in difficulty may need, was notably extended. If necessary, do not hesitate to approach the management of your establishment to discuss with them the possibilities of taking your situation into account.