CANCÚN, MEXICO — Educators from across the region have converged on Cancún for a landmark event focused on the future of Korean language and cultural education. The Central America-Caribbean Korean School Association (CAC-KSA) is hosting its 2nd Principal Workshop and 11th Teacher Training Workshop from September 17 to 20, bringing together leaders and teachers from 24 schools across 11 countries. This year's event is particularly significant, as it marks both the 10th anniversary of the association's founding and the 80th anniversary of Korea’s liberation.
Under the theme “10 Years Together, Envisioning the Future of Education with AI,” the workshops are designed to equip teachers with the skills needed to navigate the evolving educational landscape. A core focus of the program is the integration of cutting-edge technology, with sessions dedicated to AI-based learning methods and interactive teaching activities. Special guest lecturers include Professor Oh Moon-kyung of Sungkyunkwan University, teacher Song Min-seop of Incheon Haksan Elementary School, and teacher Kim Hyeon-i of Guatemala Korean School, who are sharing their expertise on tailoring instruction for the unique needs of multicultural students.
"For the past decade, our teachers have gone beyond simply teaching the Korean language; they have been instrumental in instilling a sense of rooted identity and pride in our students," said Jin Jeong-a, President of the CAC-KSA. "As we look ahead to the AI era, we are committed to finding new teaching methodologies that will not only prepare our students for the future but also instill in them a sense of hope and purpose."
The association, which was established in Mérida, Mexico, in 2015, has grown significantly over the past decade. It now serves as a vital network for 24 Korean schools in countries ranging from Mexico and Guatemala to Cuba and Venezuela. With a student body of over 1,000 and a dedicated team of 100 teachers, the CAC-KSA plays a crucial role in preserving Korean heritage and fostering a strong sense of community among the Korean diaspora in the region.
A highlight of the event is a special commemoration of the 80th anniversary of Korea's liberation, which includes a ceremony dedicated to peaceful reunification. This gathering provides a meaningful opportunity for educators to reflect on their professional mission and their role in upholding Korean national identity. By combining educational development with cultural and historical reflection, the workshops serve as a powerful reminder of the deep connection between language education and national heritage.
The event is made possible through the support of key sponsors, including the Overseas Koreans Agency, the Korean Embassy in Mexico, the Korean Education Center in Mexico, the Peaceful Unification Advisory Council of Central America-Caribbean, and the Korea Paper Culture Foundation. This collaborative effort underscores the broad recognition of the importance of the association's work in promoting Korean language and culture abroad. The workshops in Cancún represent a significant step forward in the CAC-KSA’s mission to not only sustain, but also advance, Korean education in the heart of the Americas.
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