photograph of smiling young women, 1 japanese canadian and 1 caucasian, wearing white caps, aprons, short-sleeved dresses, looking at book
Amy Sasaki and Fanny Konynenbelt, students from the Galt School of Nursing, Lethbridge, Alberta, 1949. Sasaki (later Kurio) was the first Japanese Canadian to graduate from the School of Nursing and was the Valedictorian for the Class of 1951.
Galt Museum & Archives 19790284036

The Japanese have a passion for education, and today in Japan an enormous amount of money is spent on education. Education is widespread and evenly provided. Teachers are given the highest regard, as they provide training, skills and knowledge. Japan’s economy is based on what people know and can do with that knowledge, rather than the consumption of material goods.

Along with a cultural emphasis on education, Japanese Canadians also see educational achievement as a means of improving one's social standing, social acceptance, and economic prosperity.

The Sansei were able to easily access post-secondary education through universities in Alberta and British Columbia. By the age where the Sansei could go to college, the University of Lethbridge and Lethbridge Community College were established.

However, for all the success that they have been able to enjoy, the Sansei have yet to assume high profile positions within Canada in government or business.