Male employees at Japanese owner NYK are being encouraged to be more proactive - in housework and childcare.
The company held a "Papa-Mama" seminar on Thursday to boost the participation of men in the domestic arena.
"As the number of working mothers has increased, the cooperation of partners is helpful for women to have fulfilling careers," NYK said.
Koji Azuma, a director of the non-profit organisation Fathering Japan, made a presentation to staff about the merits of men doing more of their share around the house.
Comments from employees reportedly included: “Many men joined the seminar, and it provided a good opportunity to think again about our work style,” and “I feel the necessity to reform management’s awareness of staff members who have restricted work styles required of dual-career couples having to coordinate childcare and work.”
NYK said it promotes a diverse workplace. In its 2017 financial year, female managers accounted for 16% of the total.
And the ratio of men taking childcare leave reached 40%.
"The NYK group will continue to make efforts to strengthen its human resources by recognising the importance of work-life integration and reviewing work styles to make efficient use of time, as the company strives to help employees find a suitable balance between work and personal life."
