Chairman Akio Toyoda, a.k.a. Aki-chan, taught a special class for 110 high school students. He spoke about cars, life, and his hopes for the next generation. After a Q&A session with the students, he even led an exciting extracurricular class.
Aki-chan goes to school!
Ehime Prefecture’s FC Imabari High School Satoyama opened in April 2024.
Former Japanese national men’s soccer team head coach Takeshi Okada serves as principal of this private high school, which aims to nurture the leaders of a new era.
One of the school’s defining features is its diverse curriculum, where learning extends beyond the classroom to include corporate activities and engagement with the local community.
The school also regularly hosts special classes called A Time to Encounter Powerful Life Stories, inviting professionals from business, sports, and other fields to share their experiences.
In September 2025, Chairman Akio Toyoda returned to the lectern. As Aki-chan, he answered the students’ questions.
“What are cars to you?”
“What do you want to leave for the next generation?”
“What were the most enjoyable and most challenging moments in your life?”
The idea for the special class was sparked by Chairman Toyoda’s deep resonance with Principal Okada’s views on education, leading to the first session in 2024.
On this second visit, Aki-chan once again spoke candidly, answering students’ questions with genuine sincerity.
After the special class, the day continued with an exciting extracurricular experience.
Aki-chan changed into his racing suit and transformed into Morizo, giving students rally car rides on the school grounds. The students’ delighted screams from the passenger seat say it all.
The special class brought Aki-chan face to face with 110 high school students—the leaders of tomorrow. One student asked, “What is love?” Watch the video to find out the answer!