The 3rd FES Contest in Chiba: Empowering Youth through Financial Education

The 3rd FES Contest is making waves in Chiba, Japan, building on last year's success by introducing awards from the governor and the director of education. This initiative is organized by the Japan Financial Education Support Organization (共同代表理事: Risa Hirai, Nana Abe), based in Chiyoda, Tokyo. The competition encourages middle and high school students to craft financial education videos, allowing them to share essential money management concepts with elementary students through engaging short videos.

The contest once again partners with Mikazuki Hotel and welcomes Keiyo Bank as a new collaborator this year. This collaboration aims to provide a more practical and relatable financial education experience for local children, encouraging their engagement with important life skills.

Community and Growth

After last year's contest, award-winning students from Chiba visited Governor Toshito Kumagai, showcasing the impact of their projects and discussing future endeavors. This visit underscored the community's support for enhancing financial literacy among youth. For this year's event, awareness initiatives will continue, with awards provided for exceptional performances, boosting participants' learning experiences.

Governor Kumagai expressed his excitement about the ongoing commitment to growing financial literacy among local youth. His message emphasized the importance of financial education in a time where financial information surrounds us, equipping students with knowledge to protect themselves and improve their career prospects.

Similarly, Mitsumune Nobuki, the president of Mikazuki Hotel, sent a message of support, emphasizing their commitment to nurturing educational opportunities in the community. He noted that the financial topics presented in this contest are crucial for students, promoting wider perspectives and understandings of money matters.

The FES Contest: A Unique Initiative

The FES Contest differs from traditional competitions by offering a nested learning structure; university students take on planning and operational roles while high schoolers create educational materials with their guidance. This interconnected approach enriches the learning experience, fostering growth not only in practical financial skills but also in creativity and collaboration amongst peers.

Upcoming Workshop
On September 7, 2025, there will be a workshop titled “Path to the 3rd FES Contest” in Kisarazu City, enabling participants to learn essential financial skills and produce informational videos aimed at elementary school students. This event will welcome atmosphere for family involvement, allowing parents to observe their children’s education process.

All participants will also receive complimentary pool vouchers from the venue, Ryugujo Spa Mikazuki, making it possible for families to spend quality time together after the workshop.

Expanding Financial Education Nationwide

This year, the contest expands its reach with ten district competitions across Japan, complemented by online workshops and face-to-face sessions, even catering to younger audiences. The 3rd FES Contest in Chiba is not only a competition but a broader movement aimed at instilling financial literacy and responsibility among youth, setting the stage for a financially savvy generation.

Important Dates

- Workshop in Kisarazu: September 7, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM
- Contest Application Period: June 15, 2025, to September 15, 2025
- Awards Ceremony: October 18, 2025

Participants will compete in producing 45-60 second vertical videos, showcasing their learnings in financial literacy. All entrants receive a participation certificate for their efforts.

Conclusion

With continuous support from local institutions like Mikazuki Hotel and Keiyo Bank, alongside the engagement of community members, the 3rd FES Contest in Chiba stands as a significant opportunity for youth to enhance their financial understanding, creativity, and future aspirations.