Sekisui House expands male parental leave project with record 195 supporters

Sekisui House is expanding its “IKUKYU. PJT” initiative, a project aimed at promoting male parental leave in Japan. For the 2026 campaign, which centers around the designated “Day to Think About Parental Leave” on September 19, the project has secured a record 195 supporting companies and organizations.

The 2026 theme focuses on visualizing the “positive changes” brought about by the spread of male parental leave. This follows data from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare showing that the male parental leave uptake rate reached 50.9%, rising from 40.5% the previous year. The project aims to move the conversation beyond mere statistics to how such leave fosters mutual understanding in the workplace and supports family well-being.

Participating entities include Pronto Corporation, which is entering its fifth year of support. Pronto Corporation has implemented various childcare support systems, such as childcare allowances and babysitter subsidies, to foster a culture where taking leave is a natural choice for male employees.