[For High School Seniors, Parents, and Teachers in Kumamoto] Applications Open for the 'Hoshinowa Foundation Reserved Scholarship' for 2027 Entrants!

The Hoshinowa Foundation (Location: Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City; Representative Director: Hideyuki Hongo) has started accepting applications for 'Reserved Scholarship' students, allowing high school seniors in Kumamoto Prefecture to secure scholarships in advance for their enrollment in designated universities, technical colleges, or vocational schools in April 2027. This system supports students and their parents by guaranteeing scholarship receipt during the career selection stage, enabling them to focus on their studies and entrance exams with peace of mind. The application deadline is July 6, 2026 (Monday), which must reach the foundation by that date. The Hoshinowa Foundation was established in 2018 by entrepreneur Hideyuki Hongo, a native of Nagasu Town, Kumamoto Prefecture. Triggered by the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake, the foundation started with the founder's desire to 'not let students give up on learning opportunities due to economic reasons' and to 'support young people challenging themselves toward their dreams.' To date, it has supported the education of over 100 students. Amidst rising education costs due to inflation, the foundation provides a mechanism to pre-approve scholarships in the summer of the third year of high school, helping to alleviate economic anxiety early on. The program is open to students enrolled in high schools in Kumamoto Prefecture who are expected to graduate in March 2027 and wish to enter designated institutions in April of the same year. The scholarship provides 30,000 yen per month (non-repayable) for one year.