Japan's parliament enacted a revised law on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, to formally recognize digital textbooks as official teaching materials in schools, according to reports from Japanese media. The education ministry aims to promote the use of digital textbooks alongside traditional paper versions.
The revised law, which amends the School Education Act, allows schools to use digital textbooks as the main teaching material, replacing paper textbooks in some cases. Previously, digital textbooks were only supplementary materials.
Under the new law, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) will set standards for digital textbooks, including content and format. The ministry plans to introduce digital textbooks gradually, starting with some subjects in elementary and junior high schools.
The move is part of Japan's efforts to modernize education and improve digital literacy among students. However, concerns remain about screen time and the digital divide, as not all students have access to devices or the internet at home.
