Please kindly review both the main text and the attached materials for the evidence. (See attachments above)
The following are the achievements of Chonnam National University in 2023, in collaboration with the local community, to promote health and well-being through outreach programs and projects. These programs targeted local community members, underprivileged groups, international students, and migrants, focusing on various health-related topics such as the development of healthy lifestyle habits, improved nutrition, and enhanced mental well-being, while also strengthening ties with the local community. In addition to promoting health, each program contributed to improving overall community health by raising awareness and encouraging positive behavioral changes among participants.
local communities
Nutritional Education for Healthy Aging: Empowering Elderly through Practical Dietary Guidance
Chonnam National University conducted a Healthy Aging Nutritional Education Program for the elderly, with 50 local seniors participating at the Gwangju Seogu Senior Welfare Center.
The program aimed to help seniors adopt healthy dietary practices through practical nutritional education. The key points covered in the program were as follows:
- Dietary habits for preventing chronic diseases: reduce salt, sugar, and fat intake
- Importance of consuming five essential nutrients and staying hydrated
- Increasing physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight
- Food safety and prevention of foodborne illnesses
- Tips for safe food purchasing and storage
The post-education survey showed a significant improvement in awareness, with correct answers increasing from 62% to 96%, highlighting the program's positive impact on the participants' understanding.
※ Evidence: [News Article] https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=174&bbsMode=view&key=3927
Psychological Healing Program for Local Artists
The Service Design Convergence Research Institute at Chonnam National University, in partnership with the HUG MOM HUG IN Gwangju Mudeung Center, has implemented a program to support the psychological well-being of local artists. This initiative offers art therapy and counseling to help reduce the daily stress and feelings of depression faced by artists. By doing so, the program aims to promote healthy, stable artistic activities while strengthening the cultural and artistic ties within the local community.
※ Evidence: [News Article] https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=174&bbsMode=view&page=54&key=4022
Proper Eating Habit Education at the Local Child Center
Chonnam National University conducted an educational program titled "Strong and Green Food Therapy" at the Gwangju Juan Child Center, aimed at preventing picky eating and fostering healthy eating habits. The children who participated in this program had the opportunity to explore various food ingredients and learn about healthy eating that considers the environment through cooking practice. Through nutrition education, the children's awareness of their eating habits significantly improved, and the bond between learners and educators was strengthened.
Nutrition education is particularly important for marginalized groups. These individuals often face economic constraints that make it difficult for them to purchase nutritious food, which can lead to health issues. Nutrition education plays a crucial role in helping these children form healthy eating habits and make informed food choices.
※ Evidence: [Attachment]Proper Eating Habit Education at the Local Child Center
Healthy Day Project for Community Child Center
Chonnam National University conducted a program called "Healthy Day Project" at the Mentor Community Child Center, focusing on promoting healthy eating habits and preventing high sugar intake. Participating children explored various food ingredients, learned about nutrition through hands-on cooking experiences, and gained an understanding of traditional Korean foods like kimchi. Through this program, the children's awareness of healthy eating increased, and positive changes in their dietary habits, such as reduced consumption of high-sugar and instant foods, were observed.
This program is crucial for underprivileged children who often face challenges in accessing nutritious food due to economic constraints. Nutrition education plays a vital role in helping these children form healthy eating habits and make better food choices, which ultimately supports their overall health and well-being.
※ Evidence: [Attachment]Healthy Day Project for Community Child Center
Senior Sports Program
Chonnam National University has made significant strides in promoting the health and well-being of local seniors through the operation of two tailored sports programs, both yielding positive outcomes.
The first program, Correct Walking, utilized the Foot & Posture Test to assess and analyze each participant's walking posture. This allowed participants to understand their walking habits and learn ways to improve them. The program combined theory and practical exercises to educate participants on the benefits of proper walking techniques and walking exercises for enhancing lower body strength and preventing injuries. Led by certified instructors from the Korea Walking Association, this program effectively improved participants’ physical health and provided practical support to enhance their daily activity levels.
The second program, Pilates & Yoga, was held at the university’s sports center, featuring exercises tailored to the physical characteristics of seniors. Guided by professional sports instructors, this program helped participants improve their flexibility, balance, and strength, ultimately reducing the physical challenges associated with aging.
Through these programs, Chonnam National University has actively contributed to improving seniors' physical health, while also supporting the health and well-being of the broader community. By offering programs that promote healthy living and increased physical activity, the university has focused on empowering seniors to maintain independent, healthy lifestyles. These initiatives demonstrate the university's ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with the community and enhance the quality of life for the elderly population.
※ Evidence: [Attachment]Senior Sports Program
Youth Health Promotion Program
Chonnam National University has contributed to the physical development and mental growth of youth residing in Gwangju through the operation of tailored Youth Sports Programs, promoting health and well-being.
The first program, Pilates & Yoga, was designed to match the physical characteristics of youth, focusing on improving flexibility and balance through Pilates and yoga exercises. Additionally, aerobic and strength exercises using fitness equipment were included, contributing to overall physical health improvement. This program provided an environment where participants could enhance their self-regulation skills and build confidence through physical activity.
The second program, Volleyball, offered youth the opportunity to learn various volleyball techniques under the guidance of a sports instructor, while fostering teamwork and cooperation. Like the first program, this one also incorporated aerobic and strength exercises using fitness equipment, helping participants improve their overall muscle strength and cardiovascular endurance.
Both programs actively engaged youth who had been lacking sports activities, resulting in positive effects on their physical and mental health. Participants developed awareness of their physical abilities and enhanced their self-regulation, while shaping a stronger sense of self through these activities. By offering these programs, Chonnam National University has made a significant contribution to improving the health and well-being of youth, helping them grow into more confident and active individuals within society.
※ Evidence: [Attachment] Youth Health Promotion Program
disadvantaged people
Free Oral Health Checkups for Underserved Communities
The In.C.P.M team from the Chonnam National University School of Dentistry conducted dental medical services at Songgwang Social Welfare Center for underserved populations. This volunteer program aimed to prevent oral diseases and promote dental health, offering services such as scaling, denture cleaning, resin treatments, and toothbrush instruction (TBI).
Through this initiative, the oral health of underserved individuals, who had been unable to receive treatment due to financial constraints, was significantly improved.
※ Evidence: [Attachment] Free Oral Health Checkups for Underserved Communities
Oral Health Checkups and Treatment for Residents of Facilities for Individuals with Severe Disabilities
The HanStep team from Chonnam National University conducted free oral health checkups and treatments for the residents of Yeonggwangwon, a facility for individuals with severe disabilities.
This initiative aimed to provide essential dental care to those who often face difficulties accessing regular healthcare due to their physical and financial constraints. Services included oral examinations, scaling, cavity treatment, and personalized oral hygiene education. Through this program, the team addressed critical dental health issues, improving the overall well-being of the residents.
※ Evidence: [Attachment] Oral Health Checkups and Treatment for Residents of Facilities for Individuals with Severe Disabilities
Medication Volunteer Service in Island Regions
Chonnam National University’s Pharmacy Department volunteer group, 'Yakseok,' conducted a medication volunteer service this summer in Donggori, Sinji-myeon, Wando-gun, Jeollanam-do, an exception area for the separation of prescribing and dispensing. From August 4th to 7th, 18 alumni pharmacists accompanied the group and provided prex-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-scriptions for around 180 local residents. Over 50 student members assisted in dispensing medication, distributing over-the-counter drugs, and explaining the correct usage and precautions to the residents. The students also participated in community cleaning activities, deepening their sense of service. The required medicines were donated by alumni pharmacists and supported by Daewon Pharmaceutical, Boram Pharmaceuticals, Hanwha Pharm, and the Jeollanam-do Pharmaceutical Association.
※ Evidence: [News Article] https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=174&bbsMode=view&page=52&key=4045
Dental Volunteer Service in Island Regions
Chonnam National University School of Dentistry (Dean: Kim Jae-hyung) organized a dental volunteer team, led by Professor Park Hong-joo, consisting of faculty members, residents, and students. From January 12th to 14th, the team provided dental services in Geomundo, Yeosu. The team set up a temporary clinic at Geomundo Elementary School, offering treatments such as tooth extractions, cavity care, scaling, fluoride application, and oral hygiene education (TBI). Students also assisted by providing personalized oral care guidance to local residents, who face challenges accessing dental care due to the island's remote location.
※ Evidence: [News Article] https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=174&bbsMode=view&page=28&key=4293
refugee/immigrant communities
Medical Volunteer Service for Medically Underserved Populations
Chonnam National University provided health check-ups and medical services to international students. These services included consultations, blood pressure and blood sugar tests, IV treatments, ultrasound exams, orthopedic consultations, and more. Additionally, personalized health management was supported through further medical consultations when necessary. These efforts significantly contributed to identifying and preventing diseases at an early stage for students with limited access to healthcare.
Such medical outreach plays a crucial role in caring for the health of international students, and Chonnam National University remains committed to safeguarding their well-being through ongoing efforts.
※ Evidence: [Attachment] Medical Volunteer Service for Medically Underserved Populations
Migrant Worker Health Promotion Program
Chonnam National University's Global Diaspora Research Institute, in collaboration with the Gwangju Workers’ Health Center, has undertaken various activities to promote the health and prevent diseases among migrant workers. These efforts aim to help migrant workers settle stably in the local community and lead healthy lives.
Key activities include:
- Collaboration for the protection of migrant workers' health and prevention of occupational diseases: Joint efforts were made to prevent occupational diseases and protect the health of migrant workers.
- Policy development for improving quality of life: Policies aimed at improving the quality of life for migrant workers were jointly developed.
- Academic and cultural activities and information exchange: Ongoing academic, cultural activities, and information exchange related to migrant workers' health were carried out.
- Other collaborative activities: Various health-related support activities for migrant workers were implemented through mutual cooperation between the two institutions.
※ Evidence: [News Article] https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=174&bbsMode=view&page=65&key=3900
