New Scholarship Established for Students Studying in Hokkaido High Schools: Hokuyo Bank and the Regional and Educational Revitalization Platform Sign Comprehensive Partnership Agreement

The Regional and Educational Revitalization Platform (the Foundation) has signed a comprehensive partnership agreement with Hokuyo Bank to revitalize public high schools in Hokkaido and foster next-generation talent. Under this agreement, the two parties have established the 'Hokkaido Regional Future Study Abroad Scholarship,' a non-repayable grant program for students enrolling in high schools that participate in the 'Regional Future Study Abroad' program in Hokkaido, starting in fiscal year 2027. Hokuyo Bank will participate as a top partner, supporting students who choose to leave their hometowns to study in Hokkaido from economic, environmental, and business perspectives. Through this scholarship, both parties aim to promote a 'circulation of human resources' across Hokkaido, where young people learn, take on challenges, and eventually play active roles within the prefecture. The 'Regional Future Study Abroad' is a domestic program where junior high school students leave their hometowns to attend public high schools across Japan for three years. Hokkaido has the highest number of participating schools (38), making it a popular destination. This scholarship aims to provide economic support to motivated students enrolling in these schools. The grant provides 20,000 yen per month (up to 720,000 yen over three years, non-repayable) for approximately 25 students. Eligibility includes students graduating from junior high schools outside Hokkaido in March 2027, or those residing in Sapporo, who wish to enroll in a participating Hokkaido high school in April 2027. Selection involves document screening and interviews, with no academic requirements. Applications open on June 6, 2026.