Chonnam National University actively promotes global cooperation and is enhancing its international network through various collaborative efforts with institutions and NGOs worldwide. These collaborations span across the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and demonstrate Chonnam National University’s commitment to fostering cross-sectoral dialogue and partnerships to address global challenges.

Specifically, the Gwangju International Development Cooperation Center (GIDCC) at Chonnam National University exemplifies this commitment to SDG 17, as it was established through a partnership between Chonnam National University, Gwangju Metropolitan City, and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). The GIDCC facilitates a wide array of activities to promote international development cooperation and sustainable development, bringing together universities, government agencies, NGOs, and local communities.

The center conducts key activities, including ODA Understanding Enhancement Education, Global Citizenship Education, and Intensive Lectures on International Development Cooperation. Through these educational programs, public-private partnership briefings, ODA forums, and exhibitions, GIDCC raises awareness of SDG-related themes and fosters public engagement. The center also hosts practitioner workshops and KOICA partnership incubation programs to encourage community-based dialogue and collaboration for SDG policy development and implementation.
 

Gwangju International Development Cooperation Center (GIDCC)

The Gwangju International Development Cooperation Center at Chonnam National University was established through a tripartite partnership between Chonnam National University, Gwangju Metropolitan City, and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) to support the achievement of the SDGs through research and education on international development cooperation and environmental issues. The center hosts diverse seminars and educational programs, conducts policy research on global climate and environmental issues, and serves as a platform to promote sustainable development in collaboration with the local community.

 

Key activities of the center include ODA Understanding Enhancement Education, Global Citizenship Education Programs, and Intensive Lectures on International Development Cooperation. It also builds a network for international cooperation through youth overseas volunteer programs and university ODA clubs and supporters. Additionally, by organizing public-private partnership briefings, ODA forums, and photo exhibitions, the center raises awareness of SDG-related activities and encourages public participation.

The center strengthens collaboration with the local community and businesses through practical initiatives, such as ODA Practitioner Workshops and KOICA partnership incubation programs that gather insights from local stakeholders. For example, the UNICEF Gwangju Development Strategy Forum focuses on improving child protection policies and supporting SDG policy development at a regional level.

Through these initiatives, the Gwangju International Development Cooperation Center makes valuable contributions to SDG policy development and the establishment of cooperation networks. Its achievements and activities are made available to the public through press materials and the center’s website.

Evidence: https://gjidcc.modoo.at/

 

Jeonnam Green Environment Support Center at Chonnam National University

The Jeonnam Green Environment Support Center, operated by Chonnam National University, was established to promote sustainable environmental management and address region-specific environmental challenges in Jeonnam. Designated under Article 10 of the Environmental Technology and Industry Support Act, the center functions as a regional hub for uniting environmental expertise across public, private, academic, and research sectors to actively address environmental issues tailored to local needs.

The center’s core x-x-objectives are to build a foundation for green growth and enhance regional environmental quality. To achieve this, the center pursues the following goals through collaborative efforts:

• Strengthening regional environmental capacity by resolving pressing environmental issues.
• Implementing demand-driven, region-specific research focused on local challenges.
• Supporting sustainable environmental management and providing assistance to resolve environmental issues faced by local industries.
• Promoting community involvement through environmental education and outreach initiatives.

Key Activities

1. Local Environmental Research and Development: Conducting investigations and developing specialized environmental technologies to address local issues such as fine dust, odor, and algal blooms, with the goal of improving the living environment in Jeonnam.
2. Environmental Technology Support for Small Businesses: Providing technical, administrative, and financial support to assist small businesses with process improvements and pollution control facilities, helping them overcome environmental challenges.
3. Environmental Education and Outreach: Training environmental experts to meet local needs and organizing seminars, workshops, and exhibitions to raise awareness and reduce environmental conflicts within the community.

• Citizen Environmental Education: Provides everyday environmental knowledge that can be practiced in daily life and offers information on local environmental issues.
• Specialized Environmental Training: Delivers advanced education on environmental management and technical skills, including both theoretical training and hands-on practice. The program also covers information on the establishment and amendment of environmental laws and addresses regional environmental issues and solutions.
• Environmental Promotion Activities: Establishes governance structures and partnerships to address local environmental issues, organizing workshops and seminars on environmental topics to gather input and foster dialogue. Additionally, the center celebrates environmental awareness days and hosts guest lectures from domestic and international environmental experts to raise awareness on environmental issues.

The Jeonnam Green Environment Support Center has established a comprehensive collaborative network, working with 36 companies in Yeosu Industrial Complex, POSCO, the Ministry of Environment and Yeongsan River Basin Environmental Office, as well as local governments including Jeollanam-do, and the cities of Yeosu, Suncheon, and Gwangyang. In addition, partnerships with environmental associations such as the Yeosu Industrial Complex Environmental Council and Gwangju-Jeonnam Environmental Technicians Association, alongside 21 universities in Jeonnam and local research institutes, strengthen regional environmental governance.

Through these activities, the Jeonnam Green Environment Support Center plays a critical role in supporting regional SDG policy development by conducting research that informs local environmental policies and developing practical technologies to address specific regional needs. The center’s efforts in coordinating cross-sectoral collaboration and supporting policies on climate action, pollution reduction, and sustainable industrial practices directly contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The center's achievements and contributions are documented and made publicly available through collaborative projects, publications, and community reports, reinforcing its role as a key player in Jeonnam's sustainable development efforts.

Evidence: http://www.jngec.or.kr/index.php


SDG 1 – Educational Volunteer Program in Vietnam

The Gwangju International Development Cooperation Center at Chonnam National University, in partnership with students from 10 universities in the Gwangju-Jeonnam region, conducted an educational volunteer program at Samsung Hope School in Bac Ninh Province, Vietnam. This program allows local universities and students to experience the importance of international cooperation and provides essential educational resources to underprivileged communities, with the goal of alleviating poverty and fostering global citizenship.

This initiative promotes cross-sectoral dialogue between universities and the community, working together to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through education. It also offers students opportunities for growth as global citizens.


Evidence: https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=174&bbsMode=view&key=4133


SDG2 – Partnership Agreement for Regional Development

Chonnam National University entered into a partnership agreement with Naju City and the Korea Rural Economic Institute on August 16, 2023, to promote regional co-prosperity and sustainable development. Through this agreement, the institutions aim to jointly address regional issues, such as population decline and agricultural innovation, by implementing specialized strategies and initiatives, including the Glocal University 30 project. This agreement serves as a platform for cross-sectoral dialogue, bringing together local government, academia, and research institutes to collaborate on projects that support the SDGs. By sharing human and material resources and working together across various areas, this partnership fosters dialogue and promotes practical solutions to regional challenges, such as digital innovation in agriculture, sustainable rural development, and food security.

Evidence: https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=146&bbsMode=view&key=16987
 

SDG 3 – Partnership for Student Mental Health Support

Chonnam National University's Student Life Counseling Center has expanded its efforts to support student mental health by establishing partnership agreements with various external organizations. On December 18, 2023, the center signed agreements with the Gwangju Metropolitan City’s Social Withdrawal Support Center, the Gwangju-Jeonnam Branch of the Korea Anti-Drug Campaign Headquarters, and the Gwangju Youth Dream Bank. These partnerships aim to assist students dealing with psychological challenges stemming from issues like social withdrawal, substance abuse, and debt.

Through these agreements, the center will work together with these organizations to provide comprehensive psychological support, and students will have access to specialized services offered by each partner institution. Prior to these agreements, the Student Life Counseling Center had also established partnerships with other institutions such as the Gwangju Metropolitan Mental Health Center, Gwangju Buk-gu Mental Health Center, and Gwangju Buk-gu Addiction Management Center. This expanded collaboration broadens the scope of psychological services available to students and enhances the university’s commitment to promoting well-being through cross-sectoral dialogue.

Evidence:  https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=174&bbsMode=view&page=32&key=4247
 

SDG 4 – Partnership for Advancing Digital Competence in Education

Chonnam National University’s Institute for Educational Issues signed a partnership agreement with the Jeollanam-do Education Training Institute on March 29, 2023, to strengthen the digital capabilities of in-service teachers and promote academic collaboration. In light of the increasing importance of educational technology (EdTech) due to advancements in AI, this partnership focuses on equipping teachers in geographically isolated and small schools in Jeollanam-do with the necessary digital skills to respond effectively to changes in the educational environment.

Through this agreement, the two institutions aim to collaborate on EdTech-based teacher training programs and engage in academic exchanges to produce scholarly research on educational advancements. This cross-sectoral dialogue fosters comprehensive and innovative approaches to enhancing teacher competence in digital education, thereby contributing to the achievement of SDG4 by improving the quality of education.

Evidence: https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=174&bbsMode=view&page=69&key=3855
 

SDG 5 – Gender Equality: Regional Feminism Gender Talk

Chonnam National University’s Gender Research Institute hosted a Gender Talk event titled “Regional Feminism 활활,” held at the university’s main student building. This event gathered regional women activists, including PD Dalbok from Gwangju Citizen Broadcasting, Hyekyung Yoon from Gwangju Women's Minwoo Association, Sujin Yuk, CEO of Hello Media, Jihyun Kim, CEO of Step-by-Step Shop, and Kyounghee Cha, Director of the Gwangju Women's Rights Counseling Center.

The event provided a platform for discussing the current state of regional feminism and reflecting on the direction of local public interest activities. Supported by the 2024 Gwangju Gender Equality Fund as part of the "Gender-Empathy-Connection" project, this Gender Talk is one of a series aimed at addressing gender issues spanning individual, community, and ecological concerns.

Evidence:  https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=174&bbsMode=view&key=4527
 
 

SDG 6 – Sustainable Water Management Awareness: World Water Day Special Lecture

On March 23, 2023, Chonnam National University’s Jeonnam Green Environment Center hosted a free special lecture to commemorate 'World Water Day' with a focus on "Sustainable Development and Water Environment Conservation." This event brought together approximately 100 participants, including students and local residents, to learn about critical water management and environmental conservation practices. Dr. Jong-yoon Park from the Korea Environment Institute highlighted the impacts of the climate crisis on water resources and the urgency for a swift, collaborative response from all sectors.

Key topics included national SDG 6 targets, the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) system, and Low-Impact Development (LID) technologies aimed at restoring water circulation. Participants gained insights into sustainable water management methods and government policy changes, aligning with the UN's 2023 theme, "Accelerating Change." This event enhanced public awareness of water conservation strategies, addressing issues such as drought, water pollution, and water scarcity in line with SDG 6.

 

SDG 7 – Energy Expertise Development: KEPCO E3 MBA Program

Chonnam National University's Graduate School of Business Administration, in partnership with Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), has launched the 8th session of the KEPCO E3 MBA program, starting September 1, 2023. This program is designed to develop energy experts within KEPCO by offering a dual degree MBA program in collaboration with the Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina (USC).

Through this partnership, selected KEPCO employees undergo training in both South Korea and the United States, gaining expertise in global energy management and sustainable energy practices. The program includes lectures by professors from Chonnam National University and USC, a leading institution in global business education. Graduates receive MBA degrees from both institutions, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to address energy challenges sustainably.

Evidence: https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=174&bbsMode=view&page=53&key=4032
 

SDG 8 – Job Creation and Economic Growth: JNU Job Festa and Employment Matching Day

Chonnam National University (JNU) hosted a large-scale job fair, "JNU Job Festa," on September 19, 2023, with additional events, including "Buk-gu Employment Matching Day," organized in collaboration with Buk-gu District of Gwangju. This initiative aims to bridge job seekers, including students, international students, and local citizens, with various employers, from public institutions to prominent corporations, such as Gwangju Tourism Corporation, POSCO, and Kia. By providing recruitment information, job consulting, and on-site interviews, this event fosters an inclusive environment that encourages quality employment opportunities.

Furthermore, the event demonstrated JNU’s commitment to global engagement by offering information on life in Korea to international students and arranging a Q&A session with employed foreign alumni to support their job search. As part of the fair, participants also gained insights into youth employment policies, career development, and skill enhancement through various workshops and programs.

The JNU Job Festa represents a model for cross-sectoral dialogue that advances SDG 8 by promoting job creation, economic growth, and career support for diverse groups, while connecting academia, government, and industry to create sustainable employment pathways.

Evidence: https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=146&bbsMode=view&key=17012
 

SDG 9 –  CNU RIS Project Group on Energy System Infrastructure

The Gwangju-Jeonnam Regional Innovation Platform (RIS) at Chonnam National University is actively building industrial and innovation infrastructure through cooperation with academia, industry, research institutions, and the local community. The RIS program focuses on enhancing technology and workforce development in areas such as smart grid design, operation, and the production of critical materials and components for energy infrastructure. Through these efforts, the RIS aims to increase the resident population and foster the growth of the regional energy industry, thereby contributing to local economic revitalization.

By coordinating with a diverse array of stakeholders, the RIS is establishing a foundation for effective energy systems, introducing and expanding advanced technologies like smart grids within the region, and enhancing industrial competitiveness. These initiatives support SDG 9 by promoting sustainable regional development through industry, innovation, and infrastructure.

Evidence: https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=174&bbsMode=view&key=4256


SDG 10 – Yeosu Disability Family Support Center Collaboration

Chonnam National University’s Yeosu Campus Library signed a partnership agreement with the Yeosu Disability Family Support Center on July 10, 2023, to promote social welfare and enhance the rights of people with disabilities in the local community. Through this agreement, the two institutions plan to collaborate on several initiatives, including providing educational and cultural programs tailored for individuals with disabilities and their families, as well as promoting each organization’s visibility and outreach efforts.

Professor Ho-sam Bang, Director of the Yeosu Campus Library, stated, “Through this partnership, we aim to create a city where everyone can live well together by developing diverse cooperative projects, including educational and cultural experiences for individuals with disabilities and their families in our community.”

This collaboration between Chonnam National University and the Yeosu Disability Family Support Center contributes to SDG 10 by fostering inclusivity and supporting the empowerment and social integration of people with disabilities in the local community.

Evidence:  https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=174&bbsMode=view&page=58&key=3976
 

SDG11 - Collaborative Urban Regeneration for Sustainable Cities

Chonnam National University’s Yeosu Studies Institute signed a partnership agreement with the Yeosu Urban Regeneration Support Center to revitalize urban areas and promote balanced regional development. Through this partnership, both institutions work on joint research and collaborative projects focused on urban regeneration, including initiatives related to historical and cultural projects, identifying locally tailored programs, and advancing sustainable urban infrastructure. This cooperation supports community-driven projects aimed at improving local environments and strengthening social cohesion in urban areas.

This collaboration serves as a platform for cross-sectoral dialogue, bringing together educational institutions and local governance to address the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11. The partnership fosters dialogue on sustainable urban development, empowering local communities to actively participate in creating resilient and inclusive urban spaces.

Evidence:   https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=174&bbsMode=view&page=34&key=4223
 

SDG 12 – Citizens' Discussion for Carbon Neutrality in Yeosu

Chonnam National University’s Jeonnam Green Environment Support Center, together with Yeosu City and Yeosu YMCA, hosted a citizen’s forum on December 10 at the Yeosu YMCA auditorium, centered on strategies for achieving carbon neutrality in Yeosu. Under the theme “Creating a Carbon-Neutral Yeosu with the Community,” the forum featured expert presentations and group discussions with a citizen panel of 40 participants who collaborated on practical solutions for greenhouse gas reduction and sustainable consumption.

Key discussion topics included:

• Energy and Industry: Proposals for expanding eco-friendly energy sources such as offshore wind and solar power, enhancing energy efficiency within industrial complexes, and encouraging citizen awareness and education on energy conservation.
• Buildings and Transport: Expanding support for green vehicles, enacting energy-saving ordinances, and integrating energy efficiency into building permits.
• Agriculture and Absorption: Promoting eco-friendly farming equipment, restricting development near coastal mudflats, and managing agricultural and livestock waste.
• Waste and Low-Carbon Living: Strengthening recycling efforts, limiting single-use items, and promoting “digital carbon diets” to reduce digital consumption’s carbon impact.

The Jeonnam Green Environment Support Center will incorporate the ideas generated by the citizen panel into Yeosu’s climate response plan, aligning with SDG 12 by advancing sustainable resource management, responsible consumption, and eco-friendly production strategies. This initiative showcases how local dialogue and cooperation can foster practical actions toward responsible consumption and production.

Evidence:  https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=174&bbsMode=view&key=2326

 

SDG 13 – Climate Action: Partnership Agreement for Carbon Neutrality in Yeosu

The Jeonnam Green Environment Support Center at Chonnam National University and the Yeosu Carbon Neutrality Support Center recently signed a partnership agreement to lead Yeosu’s efforts toward carbon neutrality. Under this agreement, the two institutions will collaborate on several initiatives to address regional climate issues:

• Pooling Expertise: Sharing expert networks and jointly organizing seminars and academic events focused on carbon neutrality.
• Joint Research and Education Programs: Conducting collaborative research and developing education and outreach programs to promote carbon neutrality in the region.
• Enhanced Information Exchange: Expanding data and knowledge sharing to strengthen mutual cooperation and efficiently address environmental challenges.

Building on this partnership, the two centers are set to co-host carbon neutrality and climate change-focused seminars, policy discussions, academic conferences, and symposiums in the upcoming year. This initiative represents a key step in mobilizing regional collaboration for climate action, aligning with SDG 13 by promoting both public awareness and actionable strategies for climate resilience and carbon neutrality.

Evidence:  https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=174&bbsMode=view&page=32&key=4252
 
  
SDG 14 – Life Below Water: Partnership Agreement with Marine Bio Research Center

Chonnam National University’s LINC Project Group recently entered into a partnership with the Marine Bio Research Center on May 26 to advance the regional marine bioindustry through collaborative research and workforce development. Under this agreement, the two institutions will cooperate on several key initiatives:

• Collaborative Research: Conduct joint research with industry, academia, and research institutions to foster innovations in the marine bioindustry, focusing particularly on the development of functional materials derived from seaweed.
• Workforce Development: Enhance the employment potential of Chonnam National University students by offering hands-on learning opportunities at the Marine Bio Research Center, strengthening their expertise in marine bioindustry fields.
• Regional Industry Support: Collaborate with local businesses to create high-value-added marine bio products from abundant marine resources like seaweed and abalone in Jeollanam-do, South Korea’s leading marine resource base.

Through these collaborative efforts, Chonnam National University is actively contributing to SDG 14 by promoting the sustainable use of marine resources and fostering local talent to support innovations that add value to marine products.


Evidence: https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=174&bbsMode=view&page=62&key=3931
 

SDG 15 – Life on Land: Collaboration Agreement on Wetland Research

Chonnam National University and the National Institute of Ecology signed a partnership agreement on September 4 to enhance the preservation of wetland ecosystems and train specialists in wetland conservation. This collaboration aims to underscore the importance of wetlands as carbon sinks and promote biodiversity in response to the climate crisis. Key components of the agreement include:

• Joint Research on Wetlands: The two institutions will conduct research on wetlands to support carbon neutrality and enhance biodiversity.
• Specialist Training Programs: By fostering the development of wetland conservation experts, both institutions aim to strengthen the sustainable management of wetlands in South Korea.
• Support for Government Policies: Through these efforts, the partnership contributes to national policies aimed at sustainable wetland ecosystem management and climate change response.

Evidence: https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=174&bbsMode=view&page=51&key=4052
 

SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: Partnership Agreement with the Gwangju Bar Association

Chonnam National University’s Human Rights Center has entered into a partnership agreement with the Gwangju Bar Association to jointly promote and expand human rights culture in the region. This collaboration, formalized on January 30, includes commitments to protect human rights, foster a culture of gender equality, and prevent issues such as harassment and violence.

Under this agreement, the Human Rights Center will benefit from legal consultation services provided by the Gwangju Bar Association, particularly concerning human rights protection and the prevention of sexual harassment and violence. The center also plans to establish a legal advisory group, allowing specialized attorneys to contribute expertise on reported cases and participate in investigation and mediation processes.

This initiative reflects Chonnam National University’s commitment to SDG 16 by enhancing institutional capacities to uphold justice and support a culture of peace and human rights within the community.

Evidence:  https://today.jnu.ac.kr/WebApp/web/HOM/COM/Board/board.aspx?boardID=174&bbsMode=view&page=29&key=4279

SDG 17 – Gwangju International Development Cooperation Center (GIDCC)

The Gwangju International Development Cooperation Center (GIDCC) at Chonnam National University, established through a tripartite partnership between Chonnam National University, Gwangju Metropolitan City, and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), actively promotes cross-sectoral dialogue to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through various initiatives, the GIDCC facilitates collaboration among universities, government agencies, NGOs, and the local community, enabling meaningful discussions and partnerships that advance international development cooperation and sustainable development.

Key activities include educational programs such as ODA Understanding Enhancement Education, Global Citizenship Education, and Intensive Lectures on International Development Cooperation, all of which raise awareness about SDG-related themes. Additionally, by hosting public-private partnership briefings, ODA forums, and photo exhibitions, the GIDCC enhances public engagement and encourages participation in SDG-related activities.

The center also organizes practitioner workshops and KOICA partnership incubation programs to bring together local stakeholders, further promoting community-based dialogue for SDG policy development and implementation. Through these diverse efforts, the GIDCC strengthens the foundation for achieving SDG 17 by fostering effective partnerships and making information available to the public through its website and press materials.
 

 

Evidence: https://gjidcc.modoo.at/