EDITORIAL: Ko, education ministry out of touchThe Ministry of Education this week repeatedly apologized for a video it released last month promoting the government’s “National Childcare Policy for Ages 0-6,” which had triggered strong reactions from anime, manga and figurine fans who said it disrespected people’s hobbies and preferences. In the 30-second video, a married couple with their two young children visit the husband’s mother, whom he secretly hands some cash, asking her to pay the delivery person when the action figure he ordered arrives. The ministry on Saturday last week took the video down and apologized the next day. Many online commenters and legislators have criticized Ko and the ministry for showing ignorance and discrimination against anime and manga fans, and a general disdain for personal interests and hobbies. To win over young adults, politicians and government agencies should first show respect for diversity and be willing to listen and learn about their situations and needs, rather than unilaterally deciding what is best for them.

Source: Taipei Times October 15, 2023 03:41 UTC