7 hours ago
Labor-starved Japan taps foreigners and seniors to drive its buses
TOKYO -- As Japanese bus operators struggle to compete with other transport companies for drivers, some are finding ways to tap talent outside the usual corners, including students from Southeast Asia and retirees seeking second careers.
In March, bus company Jotetsu agreed to a tie-up with the city of Sapporo, where it is based, and language school operator Hokkaido Arbeit Johosha. The plan is for Jotetsu to bring students on as drivers after they graduate from the two-year school. The city, which wants to maintain its bus routes, will cover part of the students' tuition and wages.
