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๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท South Korea /Technology

SeoulTech pioneers AI integration and 'Business Campus' model for future talent

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

Interview Sources not specified Context piece
  • SeoulTech is making AI education mandatory for all undergraduates, integrating it across disciplines.
  • The university is also expanding its 'AI+X' convergence education and establishing a 'Business Campus' model.
  • New programs in quantum physics and expansion of humanities into its free major program aim to foster future-ready talent.

Seoul National University of Science and Technology (SeoulTech) is proactively adapting to the artificial intelligence era by making AI education a mandatory component for all undergraduates. The university aims to cultivate future-ready talent equipped with not only AI proficiency but also a deep understanding of humanity and ethical responsibility.

Under the leadership of President Kim Dong-hwan, SeoulTech is implementing a comprehensive strategy that includes making 'Computing Thinking and Artificial Intelligence' a compulsory general education course starting in 2025. This will ensure all students grasp the fundamental principles and applications of AI. For students in science and engineering fields, more in-depth AI education will be provided. Additionally, the university has introduced 'Learning Core,' an AI-based personalized learning system designed to diagnose student levels and offer tailored content and feedback.

The talents that universities should cultivate in the AI era are not just people who use AI well. They must be people who critically judge the results presented by AI, understand its impact on humans and society, and solve new problems by combining it with their major.

โ€” Kim Dong-hwanSeoulTech President Kim Dong-hwan on the university's vision for nurturing talent in the age of AI.

SeoulTech is also broadening its 'AI+X' convergence education initiative, which focuses on integrating AI into various majors and industries. The university is establishing an 'ST-AX Alliance' involving 14 project groups and research centers to foster joint research, educational programs, and student exchanges. This alliance includes collaborations with other national universities like Kumoh National Institute of Technology and Chungnam National University on AI and semiconductor micro-degrees.

The university's infrastructure is not the only factor; the connection with specialized research institutions enhances students' trust in newly established departments.

โ€” Kim Dong-hwanSeoulTech President Kim Dong-hwan explaining the importance of external partnerships for new academic programs.

In line with its vision of a 'Business Campus,' SeoulTech is forging strong partnerships with external research institutions. The new Quantum Convergence Physics department will collaborate with the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), leveraging advanced research infrastructure for student education. Similarly, the Biomedical Engineering department will partner with the Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences (KIRAMS) and international institutions.

To enhance career competitiveness, SeoulTech's Career Services Center has been recognized for its comprehensive support, offering services from career exploration to job placement. Programs like the 'ST Career Fair' and industry-specific initiatives connect students with professionals and provide hands-on experience. The university emphasizes linking field practice and research experiences with career education, with over 300 students annually participating in research internships at KIST.

The most important competency is the ability to critically review AI results and utilize them appropriately, along with the ability to clearly define the problem you are trying to solve.

โ€” Jeong Hae-seonProfessor Jeong Hae-seon discussing essential skills for students utilizing AI.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.