It may surprise you to learn why Japan is changing the workplace.
To address its dwindling birth rates, the Japanese government is taking a risk by allowing some of its workers to work four days a week.
The concept is straightforward: the government wants to make it simpler for people to manage their professions and families by providing employees with an additional day off and allowing parents of small children to leave work earlier (even if it implies a slight salary reduction). Preventing life events like marriage, childbirth, and childcare from forcing people—especially women—out of the employment is the aim, according to officials.
Japan is currently dealing with a record-low fertility rate and a work culture that is notorious for long, demanding hours. Leaders hope that by altering the way individuals work, family life will become somewhat more appealing and much easier to handle.
Now, the big question? Would this be feasible in Nigeria?
Given that many Nigerian workers deal with lengthy commutes, high levels of stress, and little time for their families, a shortened workweek might seem ideal. In addition to increasing productivity and supporting young families, it may even promote a better work-life balance.
However, before such a scheme could be successful, careful analysis of Nigeria’s particular economic challenges and employment systems would be necessary.
Right now, everyone is watching Japan to see if a single calendar adjustment can actually cause a baby boom and perhaps encourage other nations to reconsider what constitutes a “normal” workweek.
