JICE Professionals’ Japan Visit Program for Co-creation 2026 (Fully Funded Japan Exchange for African Animation Professionals)

Applications are now open for the JICE Professionals’ Japan Visit Program for Co-creation 2026, a fully funded international exchange programme that offers African animation professionals an opportunity to visit Japan, strengthen professional networks, and collaborate with leading Japanese creators and organizations. Organized by the Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) as part of the Japan-Africa Youth Program promoted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, the programme seeks to foster innovation, cultural exchange, and long-term partnerships between Africa's growing animation industry and Japan's globally renowned anime sector.

The programme will bring together 20 professionals from animation studios across Africa for an immersive learning experience in Japan. Participants will engage with Japanese animation companies, educational institutions, creators, and industry experts while exploring opportunities for future collaboration and co-creation. Through company visits, networking sessions, workshops, and cultural activities, participants will gain valuable insights into Japan's animation production ecosystem and creative industries.

Beyond professional development, the programme is designed to strengthen mutual understanding between Japan and African countries by encouraging meaningful exchanges between creative professionals. Participants will return with new knowledge, expanded professional networks, and practical ideas that can contribute to the growth of the animation industry within their respective countries.

About the Programme

The Professionals' Japan Visit Program for Co-creation is one of the flagship activities under the Japan-Africa Youth Program, an initiative that promotes cooperation between young people and professionals from Japan and Africa. The animation-focused programme recognizes the increasing importance of Africa's creative economy and seeks to connect emerging talent with one of the world's most influential animation industries.

Participants will spend approximately 12 days in Japan taking part in carefully designed activities that combine professional learning with cultural exchange. During the visit, they will tour anime production studios, interact with industry leaders, visit educational institutions specializing in animation, and participate in discussions on future collaboration opportunities.

The programme is not intended as a tourism initiative but as a professional exchange that equips participants with practical knowledge, international exposure, and valuable industry connections. By encouraging direct engagement between African and Japanese animation professionals, JICE hopes to stimulate future partnerships, joint productions, and knowledge sharing across both regions.

Programme Benefits

Successful applicants will receive:

• Round-trip international airfare to Japan.
• Accommodation throughout the programme.
• Local transportation during official programme activities.
• Meals provided during the programme.
• Participation in professional workshops and networking sessions.
• Visits to Japanese animation studios and related organizations.
• Opportunities to meet Japanese creators and industry experts.
• Cultural exchange activities.
• International professional networking opportunities.
• Exposure to Japan's animation production ecosystem.
• Opportunities to explore future collaboration and co-creation projects.

The programme is fully funded by the organizers, allowing participants to focus on learning, networking, and professional development without worrying about major travel expenses. Participants are generally responsible only for personal expenses and transportation between their homes and the designated international departure airport.

Programme Schedule

The programme is expected to take place from:

• December 6 to December 17, 2026.
• Participants will stay in Japan from approximately December 7 to December 16, 2026.

The organizers note that the schedule may be adjusted depending on international flight arrangements and operational requirements.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must satisfy the following requirements:

• Be a citizen of an African Union member state.
• Not possess Japanese nationality.
• Be 39 years of age or younger.
• Be affiliated with an animation studio or animation production company based in Africa.
• Be able to communicate in English, French, or Japanese.
• Demonstrate a strong interest in Japan's animation industry.
• Be willing to collaborate with Japanese creators during and after the programme.
• Be physically and mentally fit to participate fully in all programme activities.

Applicants with proficiency in English or Japanese may have an advantage because the programme encourages long-term collaboration with Japanese organizations after the visit.

Programme Components

Selected participants will take part in several activities, including:

• Online pre-departure orientation.
• Team-building sessions.
• Professional exchange activities.
• Visits to Japanese animation production companies.
• Tours of educational institutions.
• Meetings with Japanese creators and industry experts.
• Networking events.
• Cultural immersion activities.
• Discussions on future co-creation opportunities.
• Collaborative learning sessions focused on animation production and creative industries.

Required Application Documents

Applicants should prepare the following:

• Completed online application form.
• Documents required under the official application guidelines.
• Signed Letter of Understanding.
• Consent regarding the handling of personal information.
• Any additional supporting documents requested by JICE.

Applicants should carefully review the official programme guidelines to ensure all required documents are submitted before the deadline.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on:

• Eligibility requirements.
• Professional experience within the animation industry.
• Interest in Japanese animation and international collaboration.
• Potential to contribute to future Japan-Africa partnerships.
• Ability to participate actively throughout the programme.
• Commitment to sharing knowledge after returning to their home country.

The programme seeks professionals who can build lasting relationships with Japanese partners and contribute to strengthening Africa's animation industry.

How to Apply

To apply for the JICE Professionals' Japan Visit Program for Co-creation 2026:

1. Review the official application guidelines carefully.
2. Confirm that your animation studio meets the eligibility requirements.
3. Complete the online application form.
4. Upload all required supporting documents.
5. Submit the application before the deadline.
6. Await notification from JICE regarding the selection process.

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications early, as the online application portal will close automatically once the deadline passes.