CNU has been selected to play a central role in cultivating talent for next-generation telecommunications innovation and convergence.
 
CNU formed a consortium with Kookmin University (the leading university), University of Seoul, Korea Aerospace University, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, and Gwangju Metropolitan City and has been chosen for the Next-Generation Telecommunications Innovation and Convergence University Project. The consortium will receive annual support of 10.2 billion KRW until February 2027 to foster talent in next-generation telecommunications.

Next-generation communication refers to 5G, which is a more advanced form than the current version of 5G, and 6G, where discussions on standard technology will begin in the near future. Based on ultra-performance, ultra-bandwidth, ultra-precision, and super-intelligence, it will claim to be the core technology that enables XR (combination of augmented reality [AR], virtual reality [VR], and mixed reality [MR]) contents, perfect AI technology, and high-level autonomous driving.

In this project, a wide range of experts in next-generation telecommunications will be nurtured, including communication system engineers involved in designing and operating mobile terminals, base stations, and network equipment, as well as software engineers specialized in O-RAN networks and quantum security, and hardware engineers involved in modem design and related semiconductor hardware. The project is expected to play a significant role in alleviating the shortage of talent in the telecommunications, electronics, and computer industries.
 
In particular, the Next-Generation Telecommunications Innovation and Convergence University Project Team at CNU (director: Professor Park Ho-sung), aims to cultivate experts in 5G and 6G based on telecommunications and network curricula integrated with artificial intelligence.

The project promotes development and operation of a joint curriculum, flexible faculty and academic systems, a corporate participation project (WE-MEET), and support for a wide range of extracurricular and club activities. Accordingly, students can complete beginner, intermediate, and advanced education courses in the field of next-generation communication regardless of major, through small unit majors (microdegree programs) which will be recognized on their diplomas to certify their competence.
 
Furthermore, efforts will be made to utilize the infrastructure in Gwangju Metropolitan City to cultivate experts in next-generation telecommunications and promote industrial development. Research institutes, industrial companies, and committees will be established to foster well-rounded graduates with practical capabilities.