Note: This website was automatically translated, so some terms or nuances may not be completely accurate.
Japan's English Proficiency Ranks 35th EF Releases Survey Results
EF Education First Japan (EF), the Japanese subsidiary of the private education institution EF Education First, which operates study abroad and language education programs, released the global English Proficiency Index Report "EF EPI 2016" on November 17.
This marks the sixth edition of the report.
EF is the Official Language Training Partner for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
On the same day, a press conference was held at the Swedish Embassy in Minato Ward, Tokyo, where Christopher McCormick, Director of the Education Division at EF Headquarters, reported on the results. Mr. McCormick stated that the report is based on data obtained from the company's free online English test (EFSET) and that the big data from 950,000 adult English learners in 72 countries around the world is highly reliable. He noted that while European countries dominated the top spots in the rankings, with the Netherlands in first place followed by Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland, Singapore's entry at sixth place was noteworthy. He also introduced the global trend that women have higher English communication skills than men. Asia shows significant variation in proficiency by country, with Japan dropping five places from the previous ranking to 35th. Analysis indicates a downward trend even compared to past performance. With the 2020 Tokyo Olympics approaching, he highlighted the need to improve the English skills of young people and volunteers, as well as the importance of introducing early language learning in schools.
Sanchong Lee, President of EF, stated that he aims to raise Japan's ranking to within the top 20 by 2020. He announced that the company will provide its English education platform free of charge to educational institutions such as schools.
At the venue, guests Yoko Ono, spokesperson for the Tokyo Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, and Paralympian Manami Tani joined the discussion on the Tokyo Games and English communication.
Tani shared the benefits of learning English, stating, "I studied English because I wanted to communicate with more people during competitions abroad. It broadened my world and even helped me improve my records." She added that for the 2020 Games, she hopes to experience and enjoy the world together with her children.
Ms. Ono stated, "For the 2020 Games, we want people beyond volunteers to act as 'ambassadors of hospitality in the city.' Improving English skills will be key to the Tokyo Games' success." Finally, President Lee delivered the message: "EF supports JAPAN 20th by 2020."
"EF EPI 2016" site: http://www.efjapan.co.jp/epi/
Related article:EF Education First Japan becomes Tokyo 2020 Official Language Training Partner[July 7, 2016]
Was this article helpful?
Share this article
