Generous Donation Ceremony to Support Students in Need by Japan Coop Insurance

On April 6, 2026, a significant donation ceremony took place at the Coop Insurance Plaza in Sendagaya, Shibuya, Tokyo. This event saw the Japan Coop Insurance Federation generously donating funds to the 'Tasukeai Scholarship Program', aimed at supporting students who are struggling to continue their education due to the loss of their guardians.

During the ceremony, Hiroko Sasakawa, the Chairperson of the Japan Coop Insurance Federation, presented a certificate signifying a donation of 5.1 million yen to Masako Takekawa, the Chairperson of the National University Coop Federation Scholarship Foundation. This benevolent act is part of the 'CO･OP Insurance Project illuminating the future', focusing on aiding students in their educational pursuits.

The Tasukeai Scholarship Program is designed to provide urgent financial assistance of 120,000 yen, which does not require repayment, to students who have lost their guardians and are facing economic challenges in continuing their studies. It is important to note that due to financial constraints, there are eligibility requirements, and priority is given to those who are under particularly difficult circumstances regarding their academic environment.

This nationwide initiative garners support mainly from contributions made by people and university cooperatives who wish to help students who express a strong desire to continue their education and realize their dreams despite their hardships.

The journey of the Tasukeai Scholarship Program began in 1992 under its previous name, the 'Study Assistance Program'. Initially aimed at providing assistance to students who lost their guardians, this program was transformed in 2018 into the Tasukeai Scholarship Program, allowing it to reach a broader audience including students in dire situations who are not members of the cooperative. This change was ratified at the National University Coop Federation's general assembly, leading to the establishment of the National University Coop Federation Scholarship Foundation.

As of February 2026, the cumulative achievements since the start of the assistance program in 1992 include a total of 6,438 beneficiaries, with a remarkable amount of 860 million yen distributed among them.

Overview of the Tasukeai Scholarship Program

- Eligibility: Students who face severe financial difficulties in continuing their studies due to the death of a guardian.
- Amount: A one-time scholarship of 120,000 yen (non-repayable). In cases where students pass away within five months after their guardian’s death until graduation, the distribution is adjusted to 24,000 yen per month.
- Assessment: Due to financial limitations, there are constraints on grants. The foundation conducts an assessment based on established criteria to determine eligible beneficiaries. For detailed application guidelines, please refer to the information provided below.

National University Coop Federation Scholarship Foundation (Abbreviated: University Coop Scholarship Foundation)

Application Guidelines for the Tasukeai Scholarship Program
Your support through donations and joining as a supportive member is crucial in ensuring that as many students as possible can continue their studies. We kindly ask for your cooperation in this endeavor.

This event not only underscores the important role of support systems for students in distress but also showcases the commitment of Japan Coop Insurance Federation to fostering an environment where education remains accessible for all, regardless of personal loss or hardship.