Shinichi Yamanaka is the President of KADOKAWA DWANGO Educational Institute in Japan. Under his leadership, the institute founded the innovative N-High School, recognised as a Top 3 finalist for the World’s Best School Prize for Innovation in 2022. Before this role, Yamanaka served as the Vice Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology. During his tenure, he played a key role in advocating for educational reforms geared toward meeting the demands of the 21st century.

Established in 2016, N-High School stands as the largest private educational
institution in Japan, accommodating approximately 29,000 students across 69
satellite campuses situated in urban and rural regions. The school offers a blend of in-person and online instruction, encompassing a curriculum that extends beyond conventional disciplines like mathematics and literature to encompass emerging fields such as AI and machine learning.

N-High School initiated its Virtual Reality (VR) programme in 2021 to provide
students with the opportunity to augment their learning experiences remotely
through the utilisation of virtual environments. This technological advancement
allows students to virtually explore historical landmarks in distant regions or engage in scientific experiments that may pose risks in traditional settings. Within the realm of English language education, Smart Tutor facilitates lessons through interactions with virtual avatars and assesses their proficiency in fluency, pace, and eye contact. Presently, approximately 6,500 contents offered at the school have integrated VR capabilities.

In February 2022, the institution initiated an interview training programme aimed at assisting students in preparation for employment and university entrance
examinations. Additionally, collaborations were established with Kinki University,
Chuo University, and Komazawa University, enabling students to virtually explore
campus facilities at their convenience.

Yamanaka has previously held the positions of Ambassador to Bulgaria and Director General of the Elementary and Secondary Education Bureau. Additionally, he has served as Director of the Commission on Education Rebuilding and holding the position of Deputy Director of Education Rebuilding Council in the Prime Minister’s Office.