[50,000 Won Journey Program (approximately $36 as of October 29, 2024)]

Chonnam National University’s “50,000 Won Journey” program is a unique initiative that offers students with no prior overseas experience the opportunity to explore global issues with just 50,000 won (approximately $36 as of October 29, 2024). This program is designed for students to freely select and investigate one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in various countries around the world, enabling them to delve into real-life examples of SDG implementation.

Students can choose an SDG topic that interests them—such as sustainable cities, economic growth, climate action, inequality reduction, or environmental protection—and conduct in-depth explorations on how these goals are realized in different regions. Through this hands-on learning experience, students not only observe SDG practices but also engage with local experts and communities, gaining firsthand insights into the global efforts and challenges associated with sustainable development. This process allows students to move beyond theoretical knowledge, fostering a more profound and practical understanding of the SDGs and global citizenship.

The program goes beyond academic learning, offering students the chance to embody SDG values, engage in real-world applications, and appreciate the diversity of social and cultural contexts around the world. The “50,000 Won Journey” supports students in broadening their global perspectives and growing into responsible global citizens committed to advancing the SDGs. Through this initiative, Chonnam National University fulfills its vision of nurturing global leaders ready to contribute to a more sustainable future.

※ Evidence: 50,000 Won Journey Program SDG Report: https://international.jnu.ac.kr/Board/Board.aspx?BoardID=24
 

Citizen Competency Lab Program

The Citizen Competency Lab is a program initiated by Chonnam National University in the second semester of 2022, designed to strengthen students’ civic competencies and enable them to contribute to the public good as active members of their communities. This program offers students the opportunity to select one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and collaboratively explore solutions through hands-on activities, fostering cooperation to address challenges for a sustainable society.

The primary goal of this program is to develop students’ abilities to communicate and collaborate for the public good, thereby enhancing their civic competencies. Through this experience, students gain more than just academic knowledge; they cultivate a genuine sense of social responsibility and the skills to translate that responsibility into action.

Program Values and the Significance of SDG Engagement

The Citizen Competency Lab encourages students to deepen their understanding and empathy toward various social and environmental issues through an SDG-centered approach, prompting them to take meaningful action. For instance, students choosing themes such as poverty alleviation, climate action, or quality education engage in activities that allow them to explore and implement solutions to regional, national, and global challenges, contributing to the creation of a sustainable society.

This program goes beyond traditional learning, offering students a chance to independently investigate problems and implement solutions, nurturing their growth as global citizens. Through SDG-related actions, students recognize their connection to both their communities and the wider world, inspiring them to commit to continuous efforts for the common good. This experience lays a critical foundation for students to become responsible leaders in the future.

※ Evidence: Annual Report of the Center for Educational Innovation
 

Specialized ESG Management Insight Program

The ESG Management Insight Expert Training Program, organized by Chonnam National University’s Job Plus Center, was conducted from July 17 to July 21, 2023, to empower graduates and local young job seekers with essential ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) knowledge and practical skills. This program was specifically designed to enhance employment competitiveness by equipping participants with a solid understanding of sustainable management practices, aligning closely with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Program Overview and Objectives: The program provided participants with comprehensive training on various aspects of ESG management, including:

• An introduction to ESG principles and understanding K-ESG guidelines,
• Practical training in project planning and report writing,
• Instruction on organizational role compatibility and professional business etiquette, and
• Personalized mentorship through small group consulting with current industry professionals.

Through the program, participants not only learned about sustainable management practices but also developed hands-on skills in report writing and professional communication. These competencies are essential for contributing to sustainability efforts within their future workplaces and align with SDGs such as Quality Education (SDG 4), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), and Climate Action (SDG 13).

Program Impact and Relevance to SDGs: This program exemplifies Chonnam National University’s commitment to integrating SDG-related education into its curriculum, particularly by focusing on practical applications of sustainability in the workplace. By training students and young professionals in ESG management, the program fosters a workforce that is equipped to address global challenges through responsible business practices. Furthermore, the initiative contributes to community and regional development by supporting sustainable employment skills among young job seekers, thus promoting a sustainable economy and community resilience.

※ Evidence: Specialized ESG Management Insight Program
 

ESG and Corporate Citizenship (Capstone Design)

The course "ESG and Corporate Citizenship" was newly introduced at Chonnam National University to address the rising importance of ESG in business environments and the emergence of stakeholder capitalism. This course aims to develop students' understanding of sustainable ESG management practices at both local and corporate levels.

Course Objectives and Structure:

• Students engage in team-based capstone projects that focus on addressing local community issues through ESG-centered solutions.
• POSCO will provide lecture materials to support the curriculum.
• During the semester, students, together with faculty, graduate students, and undergraduates, are encouraged to participate in an ESG competition in partnership with local companies, where they propose creative and innovative ideas related to corporate citizenship.

Relevance to SDGs: This course not only equips students with essential knowledge and skills for sustainable development but also encourages direct engagement with real-world challenges. By fostering collaboration between academia and local businesses, the program contributes to SDG x-objectives, particularly Quality Education (SDG 4), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), and Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9). This initiative demonstrates Chonnam National University's commitment to preparing students as responsible global citizens who actively contribute to sustainable corporate and community development.

※ Evidence: ESG and Corporate Citizenship (Capstone Design)