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OCHABI's Commitment to Redefine Creativity Education

In celebration of its 70th anniversary, the Hattori Gakuen School Corporation, known as OCHABI, has announced a significant shift in its educational philosophy. Under the leadership of Chairman Motoharu Hattori, this institution aims to reconnect with the core values and foundational spirit established by its founders. In this article, we explore how OCHABI strives to redefine creativity education as it moves forward.

Founded by biologist Hirotaro Hattori and his human rights activist son, Chikuyuki Hattori, OCHABI has its roots deeply embedded in questioning the essence of humanity and society. Their motto, "Look Closely," reflects a simple yet profound approach to observation and understanding. Despite the recovering material opulence in post-war Japan, Hirotaro and Chikuyuki recognized a decline in the richness of human sensitivity. They were determined to enhance this quality through fieldwork and liberal arts, facilitating personal growth through artistic experiences within the environment of their private residence in Ochanomizu.

However, the contemporary landscape of art education has witnessed an overwhelming focus on quantifiable achievements such as skill acquisition and entrance exam results. This paradigm shift has led to a devaluation of foundational creative processes like fieldwork. The competitive environment among art preparatory schools, marked by tuition discounts and the glorification of acceptance rates, has overshadowed the emphasis on educational quality. Recognizing this detrimental trend, OCHABI deemed it necessary to steer away from such distractions.

Consequently, OCHABI’s Ochanomizu School of Arts will no longer publicize its acceptance rates, thus separating its educational approach from competition-based metrics. This decision signifies not just a change in communication strategy but a serious commitment to nurturing education that values diversity and encourages learners to pursue individualized paths.

Educational Policies to Foster Creativity

OCHABI has outlined its educational policies for its institutions to reflect this vision:

Ochanomizu School of Arts

OCHABI aims to revisit its foundational vision while acknowledging the trend among art universities to prioritize comprehensive selection processes. It will redefine its entrance guidance to emphasize learning art as a part of liberal arts education. By fostering a creative spirit grounded in real-world inquiries, the curriculum will focus on developing essential skills such as problem-setting and decision-making—abilities that are critical in today’s sophisticated information landscape. Furthermore, the discontinuation of acceptance rate announcements will reinforce the institution’s dedication to quality education.

Ochanomizu Art College

In an effort to promote a circular economy, this school will implement project-based learning that integrates art, design, marketing, and science. Students will work collaboratively with like-minded organizations, ensuring that sustainability and economic activities are perceived as interconnected endeavors. This approach will strengthen OCHABI's functionality as an education provider committed to a sustainable future.

Art Gym

The Art Gym seeks to redefine art not as a privilege but as a fundamental cultural foundation accessible to everyone. By establishing environments where individuals of all ages and backgrounds can engage in creative activities, it aims to transform current structures that suppress cultural participation. The institution will support lifelong education that fosters ongoing creativity across generations, ultimately contributing to culture creation and dissemination.

OCHABI is proud to be a member of the UN Global Compact and the Japan Circular Economy Partnership, endorsing efforts towards a sustainable society and environment through education. It believes that education should not be subservient to market demands or policies, but rather empower individuals to create value and take responsibility for the future. In a time when cultural and artistic integrity is often compromised for efficiency and cost-effectiveness, OCHABI aims to preserve the richness of human sensibility.

OCHABI declares its unwavering commitment to continue educational practices grounded in diverse philosophies, regardless of societal or policy changes. Moving forward, the institution will gradually announce concrete initiatives designed to implement creativity education throughout society. Details of these initiatives will be disclosed in due course, and all stakeholders are encouraged to watch closely for further developments.

About OCHABI

Founded in 1955, Hattori Gakuen School Corporation is headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, and remains committed to its founding ideals.

For media inquiries, please contact Hattori Gakuen Public Relations: 0120-084-612 or 03-3293-7400. Email: [email protected]

Official Websites:
Ochanomizu School of Arts
Ochanomizu Art College
Art Gym