Discourse on the Community Rehabilitation Plan and Relocation Devised by Junior High School Students

Study of Minami-Sanriku-cho, Miyagi prefecture, devastated by the Great East Japan Earthquake

Abstract

The affected area by the Great East Japan Earthquake, has a tight-knit community with strong relationships. However, the elderly are more outspoken than other community members, and not everyone in the area can freely voice their opinions. Still, the recovery process takes a long time. In Japanese provincial towns and fishing villages where populations are declining, it is important to acknowledge the opinions and contributions of the younger generation regarding town development and rehabilitation.This research examines the town rehabilitation planning process, which was written by adults and junior high school students during integrated study periods at schools, and states the importance of the younger generation's participation in the town's development and rehabilitation.