Korea University Leads Discussion on a "Sustainable Future"..."Cultivating Global Leaders Domestically and Internationally"

Collaboration with Fudan University and National University of Singapore
Joint Research Forum Operated for 3 Years
Aiming to Provide Practical Solutions

In celebration of its 120th anniversary next year, Korea University is leading discussions on sustainability for future generations, focusing on climate change, ecosystem conservation, and renewable energy. The university aims to establish collaborative research partnerships with global universities and nurture global leaders who will drive change both domestically and internationally.

On the 17th, at Korea University, Kim Dong-won, President of Korea University (center), Qiu Xin, President of Fudan University (left), and Tan Eng Chye, President of the National University of Singapore (right), are posing for a commemorative photo at the '2024 S3 Sustainability Forum'.
[Photo by Korea University]

On the 17th and 18th of this month, Korea University partnered with Fudan University in China and the National University of Singapore to host the '2024 S3 Sustainability Forum' at the International Remote Conference Room of the Baekjoon Centennial Samsung Hall. The event was attended by Korea University President Dongwon Kim, Fudan University President Qiu Xin, National University of Singapore President Tan Eng Chye, as well as numerous professors and researchers from each university.

The goal is to foster research collaboration among the three representative universities of Seoul, Shanghai, and Singapore, and to build a sustainable future through academic discussions among researchers. Starting with Korea University this year, the three universities will sequentially operate a joint research forum over three years until 2026.

In his welcoming remarks, President Kim said, "This forum is significant as it symbolizes a partnership among three prestigious universities committed to collaborating for a sustainable future. All of us share a long history dating back to 1905, and being located in the dynamic and symbolic cities of Seoul, Shanghai, and Singapore?all starting with 'S'?I hope this forum will establish itself as a new platform through cross-border cooperation."

Under the theme 'The Role of Universities for a Sustainable Future,' each university presented their initiatives. Korea University introduced its vision as a 'Global University Leading a Sustainable Future,' emphasizing sustainability as a core value of the institution, building a campus where all members participate, and its mission to nurture talent that drives change both domestically and internationally.

President Kim stated, "Through our sustainability strategy from 2025 to 2035, we aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40%, protect biodiversity, manage resources, and create an inclusive campus environment that embraces diverse values. Next summer, we plan to operate a university climate community involving over 30 universities worldwide to cultivate global leaders capable of addressing the climate crisis through diverse educational programs."

On the 17th, Kim Dong-won, President of Korea University, is giving a presentation at the '2024 S3 Sustainability Forum.'
[Photo by Korea University]

Korea University has reorganized its Social Responsibility Research Institute into the Sustainability Research Institute to oversee sustainable development goals and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) activities. Additionally, the university has implemented initiatives such as reducing fossil fuel use on campus, promoting a paperless campaign, utilizing sustainable transportation, and conducting a Zero-Waste movement. Key achievements include proposing legislation for braille books for the visually impaired, developing smart education services, and creating a Barrier-Free campus map.

Fudan University presented research outcomes in environmental science, public health, atmospheric and ocean sciences, and international relations. Vice President Zimin Chen of Fudan University stated, "We are exploring innovative approaches to address climate issues, including educational programs for climate change talent development, international programs for disaster risk reduction research, and workshops for sharing renewable energy technologies."

The National University of Singapore announced that the entire university is focused on addressing sustainability issues by targeting learners of all ages across four core areas: sustainability education, innovation in science and engineering research, building an environmentally friendly campus, and nurturing global leaders who will drive change domestically and internationally. President Tan Eng Chye mentioned, "We support diverse research fields such as coastal engineering, public health, climate change, renewable energy, and urban systems. By turning the campus into a living laboratory and collaborating with industry, we provide practical solutions."

The event continued with discussions on sustainable technology, cities, and policies. Professor Yeowon Kim from Korea University's Graduate School of Energy and Environment presented on 'Strategies to Enhance Urban Resilience and the Necessity of Climate Change Response Policies.' Professor Kim shared, "Through this forum, I was able to share common research topics with researchers in the same session and propose solutions from various perspectives by leveraging different academic backgrounds."

Director Sangki Song of Korea University's International Affairs Office said, "It was a meaningful event where three leading Asian universities came together to discuss and seek solutions on sustainability topics such as climate, environment, and energy. All three universities will celebrate their 120th anniversaries next year, and we expect this forum to serve as a foundation for academic exchange and joint revitalization."

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