Japan's student newspapers fight to keep reporting as costs, staff shortages mount

Student newspapers in Japan have long served as a platform for university students to share their perspectives and report on campus events. These publications, maintained by student editors and reporters, have existed since before World War II, chronicling the experiences and concerns of Generation Z students. Despite facing challenges such as dwindling membership and financial constraints, these newspapers persist, driven by a commitment to investigative journalism and student advocacy.

One such newspaper, the Hokkaido University Newspaper, celebrated its centenary this year. Founded in 1926, it has consistently reported on the university's affairs, from internal issues to social movements. The newspaper's history includes publishing important pieces like Hiroyuki Miyazawa's account of the Miyazawa-Lane espionage case in 1940 and a report on the Sunagawa struggle in 1956, where residents protested against a U.S. military base expansion.

However, the advent of the internet and a decline in student interest in printed newspapers have posed significant threats. The Hokkaido University Newspaper, which was revived as an online publication in 2018, now struggles with rising costs for printing and online maintenance, as well as transportation expenses. The newspaper's annual revenue of around 200,000 yen is insufficient to cover its costs, putting it on the brink of financial instability.

In response, the newspaper has begun to explore ways to adapt and survive. It aims to collaborate with other university newspaper clubs to share experiences and best practices. Kai Furuya, a third-year student involved in reporting on issues affecting the Ainu people, emphasized the importance of holding the university accountable for its historical actions and continuing to expose inequalities within the student body.

Despite the financial challenges, the newspaper remains committed to its mission of independent journalism and student advocacy.