Eiken Foundation Releases 'Integrated Report 2026'

The Eiken Foundation (Public Interest Incorporated Foundation) has released its 'Integrated Report 2026.' This report introduces the major initiatives and achievements of the 2025 fiscal year, including the expansion of testing opportunities, the lifelong learning platform concept, English education support utilizing AI and digital technology, and the strengthening of governance. Since its founding in 1963, the Eiken Foundation has been committed to the development of English education and learning environments in Japan through various projects, including the Eiken Test in Practical English Proficiency, based on the philosophy of 'contributing to the acquisition and dissemination of practical English.' In recent years, the environment surrounding English education has changed significantly due to the advancement of generative AI and digital technology, the acceleration of educational DX, and the rising demand for lifelong learning. In light of these changes, the Eiken Foundation is moving forward with creating new mechanisms to support learning, positioning itself not just as a tool to 'measure' English proficiency, but as an 'educational infrastructure' that supports those who continue to learn. In fiscal year 2025, the number of applicants for the Eiken test family reached 4.54 million, an increase of 50,000 from the previous year. Additionally, the number of applicants for Eiken S-CBT reached 588,000 (115% compared to the previous year), showing progress in expanding testing opportunities and transitioning to CBT. Meanwhile, amid rising prices and increasing test operation costs, the Eiken Foundation is promoting business reform and digitalization through the use of AI and ICT, and is working to return these results to test-takers. Starting from the first test of fiscal year 2026, the examination fees for 'Eiken (Conventional),' 'Eiken S-CBT,' and 'Eiken S-Interview' have been reduced by 100 yen for all grades. As a public interest incorporated foundation, it aims to create an environment where more learners can engage in English study. Furthermore, this report introduces business efficiency improvements through AI/ICT utilization and the development of a foundation to support sustainable public interest projects. Through AI-utilized question creation and grading reform, the promotion of digital services such as lifelong learning accounts, and the strengthening of IT governance, the foundation is working to balance the expansion of testing opportunities with learning support. In addition to these achievements, the report includes the following initiatives: - Response to the initial stages of English learning through the establishment of Eiken Grades 6 and 7 - Improvement of the testing environment through the expansion of CBT centers and strengthening of identity verification - New initiatives to support lifelong learning and educational DX - English education support and business reform through AI/ICT utilization - Service expansion into the professional and business sectors - Governance strengthening initiatives such as the establishment of Nomination and Compensation Committees. The Eiken Foundation will continue to fulfill its mission as a public interest incorporated foundation, utilizing AI and digital technology to build a social foundation that supports those who continue to learn. Together with everyone involved in English learning and education, we will contribute to the improvement of practical English proficiency that supports the future of Japanese society.