Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education Requests Seoul City to Join Alternative Education Institution Support Measures Council

Seoul City Requests Reconsideration of Alternative Education Institution Support Ordinance
Proposes Formation of Tripartite Council Including Seoul City for Alternative Education Institution Support

[Asia Economy Reporter Han Jinju] The Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education proposed participation in a consultative body to the Seoul Metropolitan Government, which requested reconsideration last month regarding the ordinance that provides support grounds for registered alternative education institutions.

On the 6th, the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education stated, "Considering the purpose of enacting the 'Act on Alternative Education Institutions,' we propose that Seoul join in forming a consultative body to explore practical support measures for alternative education institutions."

The 'Act on Alternative Education Institutions,' effective from January 13, includes provisions to protect students by establishing legal grounds for alternative education institutions where students' learning rights and safety are not guaranteed.

On the 10th of last month, Seoul submitted a request for reconsideration of the partial amendment ordinance titled 'Seoul Metropolitan Government Ordinance on Support for Alternative Education Institutions,' which was passed by the Seoul Metropolitan Council.

The ordinance mandates that the mayor provide support to registered alternative education institutions under the jurisdiction of the Seoul Superintendent of Education and requires the mayor to consult with the Superintendent when establishing and implementing annual support plans for alternative education institutions.

Until now, Seoul has provided support to unlicensed alternative education facilities that report to the city; however, it has now clearly stated that it cannot support alternative education institutions registered with the Office of Education, citing the lack of legal grounds for financial support under relevant laws and regulations.

In response, the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education pointed out, "Seoul draws a line by stating that it cannot provide financial support to alternative education institutions that are legally required to register, while taking a dual standard by supporting alternative education facilities that do not register, causing confusion among alternative education institutions."

Cho Hee-yeon, Superintendent of the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education, said, "All citizens have the right to receive education equally. This does not distinguish between inside or outside the formal school system. Rather, more attention should be given to places that may be marginalized to ensure precious learning rights. We hope Seoul will join the tripartite consultative body and discuss with an open mind, keeping all possibilities open."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.