Biei High School Takes Flight with Drone Program to Combat Consolidation

a drone operation certification program. This initiative comes as small drones see increasing use in various fields, including home delivery and disaster response.

The school's plan, set to launch in fiscal 2025, will offer students the opportunity to obtain a national qualification that allows them to operate drones in uninhabited areas without filing applications with the government, under specific conditions. This program aligns with Biei's identity as a thriving agricultural town, where the patchwork landscape of fields attracts tourists.

With the local government subsidizing most of the program's costs, Biei High School aims to keep its doors open and provide students with valuable skills. The program will be offered as an elective for second and third-year students, with practical training provided by external instructors.

Biei High School is not alone in its innovative approach. Fukushima Commercial High School in Hokkaido also introduced a drone-related program in fiscal 2023, witnessing a significant increase in enrollment. The school's success demonstrates the potential of drone education in attracting students and revitalizing schools.

The initiative at Biei High School has garnered praise from experts, who see it as a valuable contribution to local communities. Associate Professor Toshihiro Nishizawa, a drone expert at Future University Hakodate, emphasizes the importance of having trained drone operators in municipalities for disaster prevention purposes. He believes that conducting such training at local high schools, where many graduates remain in the community, is a commendable approach.

Biei High School's drone program serves as an inspiring example of how schools can adapt to changing times and attract students by offering relevant and in-demand skills. This initiative not only secures the school's future but also equips students with valuable knowledge and potential career opportunities in the growing field of drone technology.