Yoyogi Animation Gakuin, a Vocational School for Anime and Entertainment, Shifts to New System with Kazuki Yao Appointed Principal, Looking Towards Industry Development Ahead of its 50th Anniversary
Yoyogi Animation Gakuin, a specialized school for anime and entertainment, announced that Kazuki Yao will assume the role of principal on April 1, 2026. This leadership change is part of a new system being implemented in anticipation of the school's 50th anniversary in 2028, aiming to further develop the anime and entertainment industry.
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: April 1, 2026 at 20:00
- 🔍 Collected: April 1, 2026 at 16:47
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: April 17, 2026 at 04:18 (371h 31m after Collected)
Yoyogi Animation Gakuin Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director and President: Taro Ito) announced today that Kazuki Yao will be appointed as the school principal, effective April 1, 2026, as the institution transitions to a new system with an eye toward the development of the anime and entertainment industry, leading up to its 50th anniversary in 2028.
|
Name |
Position |
|---|---|
|
Kazuki Yao |
Principal, Yoyogi Animation Gakuin |
Transitioning to a New System with an Eye on the Development of the Anime and Entertainment Industry Towards the 50th Anniversary
The origin of Yoyogi Animation Gakuin lies in the 'Yoyogi Animation Classroom' established in Yoyogi, Tokyo in 1978. Since then, it has supported the passions 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, while being an educational institution, the company is also engaged 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 works, and the operation of the live music venue '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 decided to transition to a new system ahead of its 50th anniversary.
Under the new system, the collaboration between the education business, entertainment business, and facility management business will be further strengthened, establishing a structure that can promptly respond to changes in the anime and entertainment industry. This will enable the institution to produce more talents who can succeed in the industry and contribute to its development.
Comment from New Principal Kazuki Yao Upon His Appointment
When I first received the call, I was surprised and exclaimed, 'Eh?!' when I saw the message. 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 would be happy if this school could become a place where everyone can freely and joyfully do what they want.
Everyone! Let's do something exciting!!
Biography: Voice actor and actor. Major works include 'ONE PIECE' (Franky, Bentham/Bon Kurei, Django), 'Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ' (Judau Ashta), 'Dancouga – Super Beast Machine God' (Shinobu Fujiwara), 'Anpanman' (Horrorman), 'Gyakkyou Burai Kaiji' (Kitami), and others.
Special Interview Article on the Appointment of the School Principal is here