Honjo Higashi Junior High School, affiliated with Honjo Higashi High School, will begin selling school-designated sunglasses on May 15, 2026, in partnership with eyewear brand Zoff, operated by Intermestic Inc., and school uniform manufacturer Akashi School Uniform Company. The initiative aims to protect students’ eyes from strong sunlight and ultraviolet rays during school life, marking the first such program in Saitama Prefecture. The school decided to introduce designated sunglasses as part of its efforts to create a healthy learning environment for students. Teachers selected the frame and lens combinations with consideration for harmony with the school uniform and ease of use in daily student life. The chosen 20% tint lenses, including Indigo Navy and Iris Violet, allow facial expressions around the eyes to remain visible while being suitable for everyday use. Students will be permitted to wear the designated sunglasses while commuting and during outdoor activities, encouraging them to think proactively about their own health. The product lineup was selected from multiple Zoff frames and lenses, reflecting student feedback while teachers made the final choices. The lineup consists of eight combinations: four frame types paired with 20% tint lenses in Iris Violet, Indigo Navy, Ash Beige, and Cobalt Blue. The 20% tint blends naturally into student life and does not interfere with cycling to school at night, making it an acceptable option from a safety perspective. Before sales begin, the school held an outreach class on eye health and UV protection, giving students an opportunity to learn about the impact of ultraviolet rays on the eyes and why protective measures are needed in student life. Shinichiro Shimada, vice principal of Honjo Higashi Junior High School, said the school had previously allowed third-year students to wear UV-protection sunglasses during their Australia completion training program, but rising UV levels in recent years made daily protection n