A Japanese city plans to use robots to enable students to virtually attend classes as truancy rates rise due to anxiety and bullying.
Kumamoto, a city in southwest Japan, is set to introduce robots equipped with microphones, speakers, and cameras into classrooms in November.
These robots will facilitate two-way communication, allowing absent students to participate in classes and discussions with their peers remotely from home.
The initiative aims to reduce anxiety among absentee students and encourage their return to physical school attendance.
Japan has seen a rise in student absenteeism due to various factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic, difficulties fitting in, and bullying.
