The General Union is at the forefront of protecting workers’ rights in the university and college sector, including those employed through dispatch companies and vocational schools. Our ongoing legal actions against Osaka University, Miyazaki International University, International Language Center (ILC), and Yamaguchi Gakuen demonstrate our commitment to fair treatment and job security in higher education. 

These cases address critical issues facing workers at colleges and universities, from securing unlimited-term contracts to fighting age discrimination and challenging unfair pay cuts. At Osaka University, we’re confronting the misclassification of long-serving part-time lecturers as independent contractors. Miyazaki International University faces our opposition to unjust pay cuts for workers over 60. ILC, a dispatch company sending teachers to vocational colleges, is being held accountable for sudden contract changes threatening job security. 

We are also taking court action against Yamaguchi Gakuen, a vocational school, for drastically cutting our member’s hours and salary by more than 70%, despite their unlimited-term contract. This case highlights our fight against unfair treatment of long-term employees and the misuse of employment contracts. 

While the General Union always seeks resolution through dialogue, we are fully prepared to pursue justice through multiple channels. Court action is a powerful tool in our strategy, alongside strikes, labor commission complaints, picketing, and demonstrations. We remain open to meaningful negotiations, but we are equally ready to take decisive action when needed. 

Our approach sends a clear message to universities, colleges, vocational schools, and related employers: engage in good-faith negotiations to resolve issues efficiently. However, if dialogue fails, we use every means at our disposal, including legal action, to protect our members’ rights in the education sector. 

As we continue our fight for fair treatment and job security in higher education, we call on all institutions to recognize the value of open dialogue. Our goal is to create a just workplace for all university and college employees, whether directly employed or dispatched. We are committed to achieving this, whether through negotiation or legal channels, ensuring that the rights of university and college workers are respected and protected.