DAEJEON, South Korea – Daejeon City announced today that Daejeon University and Mokwon University have been provisionally selected for the '2025 Software-Centric University' project, spearheaded by the Ministry of Science and ICT. This significant achievement is poised to transform Daejeon into a pivotal hub for nurturing software talent and fostering a vibrant ecosystem for local professionals through robust industry-academia collaboration.
The Software-Centric University project, initiated in 2015, aims to cultivate highly skilled, practical software professionals who meet the demands of the industrial sector. For 2025, a total of ten universities were chosen across the nation – eight under the general track and two under the specialized track.
This prestigious selection will see Daejeon University, designated under the general track, receive up to 15 billion KRW (approximately 11 million USD) in national funding over a maximum of eight years. Mokwon University, chosen for the specialized track, will be granted up to 5.5 billion KRW (approximately 4 million USD) over a maximum of six years. These substantial investments underscore the government's commitment to strengthening software education and innovation within the region.
Daejeon University to Lead AI/SW Convergence Talent Cultivation
Daejeon University's strategic plan focuses on developing AI and software convergence talent to drive Daejeon's industrial growth and encourage local settlement. Their comprehensive initiatives include:
Operating SW major and new technology education programs, with a strong emphasis on Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Establishing and utilizing a field-oriented, creative educational environment that provides practical experience.
Implementing industry-academia collaboration and corporate-led education to ensure curriculum relevance.
Developing and disseminating open, on/offline SW educational courses to broaden access to high-quality software training.
Mokwon University to Specialize in Immersive Content
Mokwon University is set to concentrate its AI and software development capabilities on the specialized field of 'Culture and Arts,' particularly in immersive content. Their key initiatives include:
Establishing new convergence majors in AI/SW for immersive content, leveraging their unique artistic strengths.
Developing and operating specialized AI/SW educational programs tailored to the immersive content industry.
Applying practical, real-world educational methods to foster highly specialized professionals.
Activating AI/SW-related startup support and entrepreneurship programs to encourage innovation and new ventures within the immersive content sector.
Daejeon City's Commitment to Regional Growth
Daejeon City had previously pledged municipal support for these universities' applications, affirming its dedication to fostering the software industry and nurturing local talent. The city has reiterated its commitment to providing active administrative support to ensure the successful and substantive implementation of these projects.
Ko Hyun-deok, Director-General of Daejeon City's Education Policy and Strategy Bureau, commented on the selections: "The selection of these universities as Software-Centric Universities is deeply intertwined with Daejeon City's strategic industries, contributing significantly to strengthening the capabilities of local talent and creating conditions for their settlement in the region." He added, "Moving forward, we will continue to collaborate with universities to foster a sustainable innovation ecosystem where education, industry, and the region create a virtuous cycle."
This dual selection marks a significant step forward for Daejeon, solidifying its role as a key player in South Korea's burgeoning software landscape and promising a brighter future for its regional economy and talent pool.
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