#Japan #education innovation #Setagaya #FoundingBase #Chilba Forum

FoundingBase at Chilba Forum 2026

On May 17, 2026, FoundingBase, a company committed to promoting community development through education, participated in the Chilba Forum 2026 organized by the After-School Association of Japan. Based in Setagaya, Tokyo, FoundingBase has been actively collaborating with 25 municipalities to enhance educational experiences for local students.

During the event, FoundingBase presented its initiatives in Daigo Town, Ibaraki Prefecture, specifically focusing on the public tutoring program ‘Kotonoba’. The discussion revolved around how this program contributes to enhancing the attractiveness of high schools and addressing the challenges faced in after-school education in rural areas. The company's insights into sustainable education and talent acquisition were well-received, generating keen interest among numerous professionals and educators present.

Overview of the Forum

The theme of the forum tackled the complex nature of 'after-school' experiences which now include a wide range of activities such as after-school clubs, tutoring, and extracurricular engagements. The broad spectrum of 'children', spanning from toddlers to university students, especially emphasizes that high school and college students not only spend their after-school hours in learning but also support younger peers through volunteering and internships.

The forum gathered about 100 participants from diverse backgrounds, including NPOs focused on welfare, after-school clubs, academic researchers, and individuals from the private education sector, all convening to discuss the future of after-school programs.

As a speaker, FoundingBase emphasized its role in the planning and operation of public tutoring programs alongside local governments and schools, particularly discussing the significance of creating engaging educational environments.

Highlights from the Event

An example highlighted was the public tutoring program 'Kotonoba' in Daigo Town, projected to accommodate approximately 200 high school students over three years, from 2023 to 2025. Notably, by 2025, the program had successfully propelled many students into prestigious universities and witnessed a local job placement rate of around 40%. Additionally, three students secured jobs with the Daigo Town government, underscoring its role in nurturing local leaders of the future.

The event was marked by an engaging atmosphere as attendees posed questions regarding FoundingBase's business model, which involves forming deep trust with local governments, educational institutions, and communities. Questions such as the fundamental challenges of sustaining educational operations in rural areas, workforce development strategies to attract passionate educators, and methods to leverage local resources for sustainability were raised, leading to vibrant discussions on regional management.

FoundingBase’s Vision for Local Education

FoundingBase views public tutoring not merely as a method for improving academic performance or preparing for exams, but as an opportunity for students to engage in enriching educational experiences that foster a love for their communities. This deeper connection, established during formative years, provides a solid foundation, encouraging students to remember their hometowns fondly, even if they temporarily leave for further studies or employment.

The company is committed to providing young people with continuous connections through education, nurturing long-term cycles of engagement, and actively contributing to sustainable community development.

In response to the positive feedback from the forum, FoundingBase plans to expand its collaborations with municipal officials, educational boards, and research institutions. This includes welcoming on-site visits for hands-on experiences with projects like 'Kotonoba' in Ibaraki and 'Jiyuku' in Kochi Prefecture, aiming to help tackle challenges related to high school sustainability and shortages in adult education facilitators across Japan.

Contact Information

For inquiries regarding this release:

• - PR Contact at FoundingBase

Phone: 050-5482-3333
Email: [email protected]

For questions related to site visits or event participation:

• - FoundingBase

Phone: 050-5482-3313
Email: [email protected]

About FoundingBase

FoundingBase operates under the vision of 'co-creating regional value and providing the option of local living.' By establishing bases within communities, the organization engages deeply with local residents to collaboratively address community development issues. Their services extend from city promotions to supporting local industries and education initiatives, effectively working to solve prevalent local challenges through the co-creation of regional value.