Kurume City will raise school lunch fees for elementary and junior high students starting in April due to rising food costs. Monthly fees will increase by ¥500 for elementary schools (to ¥5,100) and ¥600 for junior high schools (to ¥6,200). The city is considering financial support for families, with a decision expected by mid-February. In contrast, municipalities like Nogata and Tagawa have already made school lunches free, while Fukuoka City plans to implement full coverage in fiscal 2025. Kurume officials stated that financial constraints prevent citywide free school meals but will monitor national discussions on broader policy changes. Source: NHK
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