Japan's Ministry of Education Seeks Record-Breaking Budget for AI and Semiconductors

The Japanese Ministry of Education is seeking a record-breaking 8,775 billion yen in its FY '27 budget. This represents an increase of 49.2% from the previous year and aims to focus on developing human resources in growth fields such as artificial intelligence and semiconductors.

To boost research capabilities, the ministry plans to double its request for Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research (kakenhi) to 455.2 billion yen and increase support for young researchers.

The ministry also aims to promote reskilling in growth fields by introducing a new subsidy program for universities that develop educational programs. Operating grants to national universities will rise sharply to 1,251.2 billion yen to help offset rising prices and labor costs.