Jeju Special Self-Governing Province is accelerating its efforts to create a 'Global Education & Research Learncation City, Jeju' – a place where learning and vacation (Learning + Vacation) are combined – by joining hands with major US universities.
On May 8th, Jeju Province and Jeju National University held a signing ceremony at the Baekrok Hall of the Provincial Government for a 'Memorandum of Understanding for Activating Learncation and Promoting Exchange and Cooperation' with George Mason University representing the signing, and the participation of the University of Utah and Stony Brook University, State University of New York.
The agreement includes provisions for active cooperation in areas such as: ▲joint operation of learncation education programs ▲operation of collaborative programs that share Jeju's values, vision, and future ▲other areas requiring mutual cooperation.
Established in 1972, George Mason University is a public research university located in Virginia, specializing in economics, information security, data science, political science, and international relations. Currently, it has approximately 40,000 students enrolled, and its Korean campus is situated in Songdo International City, Incheon.
Founded in 1850, the University of Utah is a public research university renowned for its computer science, medical school, and business school, with over 33,000 students. The University of Utah Asia Campus is also located in Songdo International City.
Stony Brook University, State University of New York, established in 1957, is a public research university with strengths in medical technology, life sciences, computer science, mathematics, and physics, and has around 26,000 students. The Stony Brook University, SUNY Korea campus is also in Songdo International City.
The first program under this agreement will be a summer session program hosted by George Mason University, scheduled to take place at Jeju National University from July 15th to 28th.
Students from the University of Utah and Stony Brook University will also participate in this program, with a total of 25 students from the three universities. Starting next year, universities from the United States and Europe are expected to join.
The program will consist of diverse content, including Korean language education, Jeju culture and history experiences, and explorations of Jeju's UNESCO World Natural Heritage sites. Jeju Province anticipates that this experiential learning based on Jeju's unique culture and pristine natural environment will provide participating students with an in-depth understanding of Jeju and opportunities for cultural exchange.
With this agreement, the total number of domestic and international universities that have signed learncation agreements with Jeju Province has increased to 20 (15 domestic, 5 international).
Governor Oh Young-hoon stated, "Jeju learncation is a new brand strategy unique to Jeju that combines learning, healing, and education amidst nature. In particular, this agreement with three US universities will equip Jeju with strong global competitiveness in education, research, and the exchange of young talent."
He further emphasized, "Especially through programs linked to future industries such as the space industry, green energy, bio, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital technology, we will develop Jeju into a truly global K-education and research learncation platform."
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