SiteMap
close
About Sejong
Sejong Story
A prestigious global university that fosters Sejong-type talent who challenges creative thinking and communicates with the world.
|
Um Jong-Hwa is the 15th President of Sejong University 2024.11.18 451 |
|
|---|---|
|
Um Jong-Hwa was inaugurated as the 15th president of Sejong University on July 27th. He has held various key positions at Sejong University over the years, which include being a professor in the department of Physics and Astronomy, the director of external relations, the dean of academic affairs, the vice president of academic affairs, and the vice president of administration. We had a chance to speak with him, and he clearly revealed his educational principles of love for wisdom, Christianity, and sprit of Hunminjeongeum.
▲President Um Jong-Hwa Q. Congratulations on your inauguration as the 15h President of Sejong University. Could you briefly share your message as the President? A. I am truly grateful for being given with this great opportunity, and I have an immense sense of responsibility regarding this appointment. I would take full responsibility for this position and work with every member under the goal of continuous growth and the development of Sejong University. I would also like to thank my predecessor, who is former President Bae Deok-Hyo. He put a lot of effort into setting a firm foundation for our university. Q. What made you apply for the position of President? A. First of all, Sejong University prioritizes a free and creative atmosphere in regards to education. I was therefore looking for a chance in order to contribute in regards to preparing for the future of the university as well as maintain these types of values. Second, our university has a student-oriented educational philosophy, and I believed that it would be beneficial for both the university and our students to provide an environment where students can think freely and individually. Third, I believe that my extensive knowledge and experience that I acquired while serving various positions for the school could provide support in order materialize our school’s vision. Q. Sejong University has accomplished outstanding research outcomes, which are revealed in the Leiden Ranking and THE World University Rankings. What are your plans in regards to supporting the University’s research competence? A. First, we will strengthen the infrastructures in regards to research. We will provide our researchers with the latest and most advanced research equipment and facilities as well as provide continuous efforts in regards to maintenance and upgrade in order to enhance the efficiency and quality of our research. Second, we will strengthen programs for researchers in regards to initiating more creative and innovative research. We will create a research environment where researchers can solely focus on their research while expanding opportunities for research and enhancing the efficiency of the research funding. Third, we will expand our research cooperation network. We will provide more opportunities for technology transfers and expand the industrial scope of research cooperation by strengthening our cooperation with research institutions and industries throughout the world. Lastly, we will strengthen research projects that strengthen interdisciplinary cooperation in order to promote academic linkage among various academic fields. It will open a new chapter for the excavation of new knowledge and strengthening problem-solving capabilities. Q. What will be prioritized during your term in office? A. I revealed in my inaugural speech that I have two big ambitions. The first ambition is that Sejong University leads Korea like Stanford University, which has led the miracle of Silicon Valley, as well as supports the G2 status of Korea. I am planning to introduce innovative educational methods and programs that strengthen the creative thinking and problem solving-skills of student. We will strengthen the student-centered educational philosophy and provide cross-learning opportunities in various academic fields in order to enhance the integrated learning experience of students. We will strengthen the research infrastructure, so researchers can conduct creative and excellent research. We will internationally promote our research results as well as support domestic and international research cooperation in order to maintain our university’s research capabilities at the global level. In addition, we will employ digital technology to improve school operations and student support services as well as strengthen data-based decision-making in order to increase the transparency and efficiency of school operations. My second ambition is to create a beautiful campus. Chanha Hall, which is approximately 3,000 pyeong, and the Aejiheon Complex Hall, which is approximately 15,000 pyeong, will be constructed beginning next year. The development of the campuses in Docheok-myeon, Gwangju-si and Hadaewon-dong, Seongnam-si will also take place in that order. We are planning to have Sejong University become a must-see attraction for tourists who are visiting Seoul. In addition, we will make Sejong a campus where world-class scholars want to meet the students and professors when they visit Korea. Every member of the university will have a strong sense of respect and pride with these efforts. Q. How would you like to be remembered after leaving the office of the presidency? A. I would like to be remembered as a president who led the changes and innovations of the school, contributed to the development of the organization by strengthening its solidarity, operated the school in a transparent and fair manner, and was been respected and trusted by the members of the university. Q. Is there any message that you would like to share with the students of Sejong University? A. I willing to be a president who puts the dreams and development of our students first. You are the future of our school, and the knowledge and experience you acquire here will the foundation in regards to making your dreams come true. You are full of potential and creativity. Do not hesitate to challenge yourself in regards to new experiences and academic opportunities. Failure is an opportunity for growth and development. Our university pursues student-centered education. Your voices and opinions are very important to the development of the university. The administration of the school, which includes me, always listen to and respect your needs and interests. I would like you to cooperate with us in order to improve our school. Your passion and efforts will be the key factors in regards to setting the direction of our school. |
|
| Next | Sejong University ranks 11th globally in hospitality, tourism management |
| Previous | Sejong University Ranked First in Korea for 2 Consecutive Years in the 2024 Leiden Ranking |
