Japan offers Extensive Job Prospects in Elderly Care Sector to Indian Youths

NEW DELHI: As Japan’s elderly population continues to grow, the demand for caregivers has surged dramatically. The country currently needs 270,000 caregivers—a figure expected to more than double to around 570,000 by 2040. To bridge this gap, Japan is increasingly looking overseas, creating a significant opportunity for Indian youth, particularly those interested in the healthcare and elderly care sectors.

The Japan International Corporation of Welfare Services (JICWELS), a semi-governmental organization supporting foreign care workers, that recently toured India from October 21 to October 25 revealed it to the Indian youths.

Through the “Learn About Nursing Care” (Kaigo) Seminar 2024, JICWELS representatives introduced the concept of Kaigo—Japan’s caregiving profession—and highlighted the career potential in Japan for Indians passionate about elderly care. The seminar covered Kaigo work opportunities, the qualifications required, and the skills necessary to succeed in this growing field.

With healthcare careers in Japan not requiring a formal degree or diplomas, nor language proficiency tests such as IELTS or TOEFL, the pathway is accessible for many. Mr. Hiroya Yaguchi, Director of JICWELS, emphasized this point, stating, “Japan is a great destination for Indian youth interested in caregiving or healthcare, providing them with a five-year visa and the potential for long-term employment. They only need to study Japanese for six months and qualify in skills and language exams.”

Held at multiple venues, including the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in Gurgaon, Shri Vishwakarma Skills University in Haryana, and Downtown University in Guwahati, the seminar provided comprehensive information about Japan’s healthcare system and the steps to secure a caregiving role. Videos featuring Indian caregivers currently working in Japan gave attendees firsthand insights into the day-to-day experiences and growth potential in the industry.

Japan’s Unique Opportunity for Indian Healthcare Aspirants

One of the primary appeals of Kaigo jobs is the unique combination of high demand and lower entry barriers compared to other professions abroad. Mr. Ryusuke Hagiwara, First Secretary at the Embassy of Japan in India, attended sessions in Gurgaon and Guwahati. “The overwhelming attendance and interest in Kaigo, especially among healthcare students, shows a promising future for collaborations between India and Japan in the caregiving sector,” he noted.

Prof. Ashok Kumar Chawla, Advisor for Japan at India’s Ministry of External Affairs, encouraged students to explore these opportunities, stressing the importance of Japanese language skills to excel in the profession. He also introduced various Indian institutions where students can pursue language studies to better prepare for the roles awaiting them in Japan.

Mr. Sougata Roy Choudhury, Executive Director at CII, hosted the Gurgaon seminar, acknowledging the role Indian youth can play in filling the caregiving gap in Japan. The CEO of Nihon Edutech, Mr. Krishnan Narayanan, added that over 500 students participated across four days, with events held both online and offline. He emphasized the potential for job security, stating, “These seminars are only the beginning. We’re creating a platform to support Indian youth in developing skills that align with Japan’s caregiving standards, which are rooted in respect and empathy for the elderly.”

Building Bridges: Preparing Indian Youth for Careers: To foster strong foundations in Japanese language and caregiving practices, JICWELS is not stopping at this initial seminar series. Mr. Yaguchi revealed that a second series of seminars will take place in Bengaluru, Kochi, and Chennai in November 2024. “The positive feedback and large turnout at our first seminars in Delhi, Haryana, and Assam have motivated us to expand our outreach in southern India. Our team is eager to continue building these connections,” he shared.

Alongside language skills, students also gained insights into Japanese culture and work ethics. Organizers, including Mr. Anshul Singhal from NSDC and Mr. Rajeev Gupta from JACEEX, underscored the importance of cultural sensitivity and understanding for Indian caregivers adapting to Japan’s healthcare environment.

Through this initiative, Japan offers Indian youth the chance to build rewarding, long-term careers while contributing to a society that deeply values caregiving. As the caregiving demand in Japan continues to rise, Indian students with an interest in healthcare and elderly care stand at the threshold of vast job opportunities that come with stability, growth, and purpose.