Kyungnam University (KU) celebrates its 78th anniversary this year, alongside the 67th anniversary of Kyungnam University Newspaper (KUN) and the 47th anniversaries of Kyungnam University Broadcasting System (KUBS) and the Kyungnam Times (KT). To commemorate these milestones, we conducted an interview with President Park Jae Kyu on May 20, 2024, in the President’s Office. Participants included Jung Eun-sang, Director of CUNP (Center for University News and Press); Ku Kyo-cheol, General Manager of CUNP; and Han Hak-sun, Managing Editor of KT; Won Ji-hyun, Student Editor of KUN; Park Se min, Student Director of KUBS; Kang Min-joo, Student Editor of KT.
Q1 This year, KU faced an enrollment shortage. What are KU’s strategies and major changes for the admission process next year?
A We have four main promotional topics for next year: selection as a preliminary candidate for the ‘2024 Glocal University 30’; selection for the large-scale AI services project; an overseas training program for new students; and a faculty team specialized in admissions, which has been operating since April. It is our goal that the admissions team consisting of 20 KU professors conduct counseling and explanations on the admission to KU at least twice a month.
Q2 I would like to hear your opinion on the management of existing national projects, the selection for new national projects, and the changes in departments of KU.
A The Center for National Project Promotion is responsible for preparing newnational projects and managing them already underway. Each department head participates directly in this process. Next year, 1,960 new students will be recruited. Changes in departments include the establishment of two new departments, such as the Department of Emergency Medical Services, and the closure of two existing departments. Additionally, the nursing department will increase its enrollment by 30 students. We will also focus on creating spaces for smart technology education.
Q3 Could you explain the programs designed to enhance the development and settlement of new teaching methods and the goals for improving academic administration?
A The roles and assignments of faculty member at KU will be diversifying for preparing changing education system. Faculty can develop their teaching competencies through both internal and external teaching programs. We have also expanded creative problem-solving processes, such as Project-Based Learning (PBL) and capstone design, which enhance students’ capabilities in the working environment.
Q4 I would like to hear about the efforts to secure space for club activities and information on various scholarships.
A The club rooms in Hanma Gwan will be consolidated on the 4th and 5th floors this year through renovating. A survey for renovation will be conducted to assess interior needs and open club rooms. Students can find information on scholarships in the scholarship section of the KU website.
Q5 Could you describe the measures and programs in place to improve employment competitiveness?
A We have been running programs to connect students with employment, such as Industry Professional Practice (IPP) in several departments. We also offer specialized programs for specific groups such as juniors, seniors, and especially female students. Additionally, programs that support professors in connecting their assigned students with employment also play an important role in student job placement.
Q6 Given the changing media environment, what efforts are needed for the three university media organizations to effectively fulfill their roles?
A The key is an idea. It’s important to pay attention to what influences students and how the university interacts with the local community. Seeking the methods to contribute to both the university and the local community is necessary. We hope to improve the quality of information delivery through cooperation between media organizations and to effectively serve as a communication channel.
Q7 As a former Minister of Unification and now a researcher, could you share your views on the unification consciousness that young people should have?
A North Korea declared that the inter-Korean relations have been fixed into the hostile and belligerent states at Workers’ Party of N. Korea Central Committee last year. This attitude denies the national aspiration for unification and cannot be overlooked. Pursuing peaceful unification is our national task. Our young students are the future leaders of unification: therefore, keep going with confidence in your possibilities and on your own.
Q8 Could you explain the operational plans for international exchange and cooperation, such as attracting international students, to address the decline in the school-age population?
A First, we plan to establish a ‘Global Strategies Project Team’ centered on the Office of International Services. Second, we plan to attract international students from various countries such as Mongolia. Third, we will implement Korean language education programs for strengthening the connection between education and academic studies and introduce a specialized professor system for international students. Fourth, we will enhance support services for the convenience of international students, improving the dormitory environment.
Q9 Lastly, as we celebrate the 78th anniversary of the university's founding, could you share a message with all members of the Hanma family, including students and faculty, to conclude this interview?
A Dear Hanma family members! We cannot be satisfied here. As a university with a long history and tradition of 78 years, we must strive for educational innovation, the advancement of knowledge, and regional development. Our efforts include bold innovations such as new educational programs and project-based education methods that meet the needs of both our nation and regional industries. Additionally, we are building a convergent academic structure to foster global innovation. Soon, we will establish an integrated campus for academia-industry research collaboration, fostering openness and shared cooperation through spatial innovation. We will grow into a university with global competitiveness beyond the region. Let us all embark on this journey toward our 100th anniversary with great pride and self-esteem as members of the Hanma community. Once again, I wish for the continued success of our three media organizations. Thank you.
