Yoyogi Animation Gakuin, a Specialized School for Anime and Entertainment, Transitions to a New System in Preparation for its 50th Anniversary, Foreseeing Industry Development; Mr. Kazuki Yao Appointed as Principal

Yoyogi Animation Gakuin Co., Ltd. (Head Office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director and President: Taro Ito) announces that Mr. Kazuki Yao has been appointed as the Principal of the school, effective April 1, 2026, as the company transitions to a new system in anticipation of the development of the anime and entertainment industry, leading up to its 50th anniversary in 2028. [Table] Name: Kazuki Yao Position: Principal, Yoyogi Animation Gakuin **Transition to a New System in Anticipation of the Development of the Anime and Entertainment Industry, Leading up to the 50th Anniversary** The origin of Yoyogi Animation Gakuin dates back to the "Yoyogi Animation Classroom" established in Yoyogi, Tokyo, in 1978. Since then, it has supported the passion and growth of many young people through specialized education in anime and entertainment. To date, it has sent over 120,000 graduates into the industry, producing numerous talents in fields such as anime, voice acting, and illustration. In addition to its educational business, the company is also involved in entertainment and facility management businesses. Through the operation and management of idol groups "=LOVE," "≠ME," and "≒JOY," participation in production committees for anime and stage productions, and the operation of the live house "YOANI Live Station," the company captures industry trends in real-time and reflects that knowledge in its education. To further develop these initiatives, the company has decided to transition to a new system ahead of its 50th anniversary. Under the new system, the company will further strengthen the collaboration among its educational, entertainment, and facility management businesses, building a structure that can quickly respond to changes in the anime and entertainment industry. This will enable the company to produce more talents who can thrive in the industry and contribute to its development. **Comment from New Principal, Mr. Kazuki Yao** When I first received the contact, I was surprised and thought, "What?!" Actually, I've had a relationship with Yoyogi Animation Gakuin for about 40 years. To all the students, I want you to enjoy your lives without regrets. I hope the school becomes a place where you can freely and joyfully do what you want. Everyone! Let's do something interesting! **** Voice actor and actor. Major works include 'ONE PIECE' (Franky, Bon Kurei, Jango), 'Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ' (Judau Ashta), 'Dancouga – Super Beast Machine God' (Shinobu Fujiwara), 'Anpanman' (Horrorman), 'Kaiji: Ultimate Survivor' (Kitami), and others. **** https://www.yoani.co.jp/overview/message/special/ **Yoyogi Animation Gakuin Co., Ltd.** Established in 1978, Yoyogi Animation Gakuin operates "Yoyogi Animation Gakuin," a specialized school for anime and entertainment (with 9 campuses nationwide), having produced over 120,000 graduates. In addition to full-time courses, it offers diverse learning programs including evening courses, correspondence courses (fully remote), high school division, university division, and weekly courses. The company also engages in entertainment and facility management businesses, promptly and accurately feeding back the latest industry trends and know-how into its educational programs. ■ Business Activities: ・Educational Business (Specialized schools, Culture schools, Correspondence high schools, Correspondence universities) ・Entertainment Business (Affiliated talents: =LOVE, ≠ME, ≒JOY) ・Facility Management Business ■ Official Website: https://www.yoani.co.jp/