Masahiro Ishigaki, Lecturer, at Graduate School of Economics and Management, Tohoku University received the Distinguished Service Award for supporting raising children and youths from Cabinet Office. The presentation ceremony was held at the Prime Minister’s Office. Tomiko Okazaki, Minister of State for Special Missions, handed a diploma to him. The award is given to individuals, groups or companies for their contribution to supporting developing youths and supporting families for raising children.

 Mr. Ishigaki established “Oyaji no Kai” (Middle-aged men’s Association) to give fathers and children opportunities to share various activities. The association also promotes fathers’ participation in home education and community programs through publicizing and networking. These efforts have been spread to overseas.