Seoul, South Korea – The Ministry of Gender Equality (MOGE) announced on Tuesday that it will be expanding its support for women's economic participation and preventing career interruptions through increased funding for vocational training programs.

The MOGE will be expanding the scope of its women's job centers (Saeil Centers), increasing the number of training courses available to women seeking employment or starting businesses. Saedil Centers provide a range of services including career counseling, job training, and support for women re-entering the workforce after taking time off for childcare or other responsibilities.

To address the growing demand for skilled workers in emerging industries, the number of high-value vocational training courses offered at Saedil Centers will increase from 79 to 89 this year. These courses will focus on in-demand fields such as software development, information technology, and biotechnology.

Additionally, the MOGE will be expanding vocational training programs tailored to regional industries. Building on a successful pilot program in 10 provinces last year, the ministry will be rolling out similar programs in 16 provinces this year. Examples include a course on biopharmaceutical regulatory affairs in Incheon and a course on Unreal Engine content development in Daegu.

To alleviate the financial burden on women participating in vocational training, the MOGE will introduce a new training allowance. Women who complete at least 80% of their training course will be eligible for a monthly allowance of 100,000 won for up to four months.

Furthermore, the government will be increasing the employment retention allowance for companies that hire women as interns through Saedil Centers. The allowance, which is designed to encourage companies to offer permanent positions to interns, will be raised to 4.6 million won per person.

To further promote women's employment, the MOGE will relax restrictions on the number of interns that companies can hire. This is particularly aimed at helping women in rural areas find jobs.

The ministry will also be strengthening its support for women entrepreneurs by expanding the number of Saedil Centers offering dedicated business startup services. These centers will provide training in emerging fields such as digital content creation and smart healthcare.

"Last year, our support programs helped nearly 170,000 women find jobs," said Jo Min-kyung, Director-General of the Women's Policy Bureau at the MOGE. "We will continue to work hard to ensure that women have the skills and opportunities they need to succeed in the workforce."

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