The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation is prompting universities and the government to enhance the job skills of workers. To improve the quality of adult lifelong learning and expand advanced technology education tailored to the field, 38 universities across the country gathered to establish a cooperative framework.
On September 4, the Ministry of Education and the National Institute for Lifelong Education (NILE) announced that they held the '2026 Training for AI and Digital (AI&D) Program Officials' at the Ferum Hall in Seoul, attended by over 80 representatives from the participating universities.
This training was designed to equip workers with the AI and digital skills immediately needed in the industry, laying the educational foundation for universities and promoting transparent project management.
The event featured a plaque presentation ceremony for 13 newly joined universities designated as 'AID Leading Universities.' The newly selected institutions include Kyeongwon University of Arts, Dongguk University, Myongji University, Myongji University of Applied Sciences, National Kumi University of Technology, Choonhae College of Health Sciences, Woosong University, Chosun University of Science and Technology, Korea National Open University, Daegu Haany University, Sogang University, Seoul Digital University, and Soonchunhyang University.
During the first-year best practice sharing session, existing participating universities shared their valuable on-site experiences. Myongji University presented a 'bundled course' model that connects multiple subjects, while Busan Digital University showcased a successful 'intensive camp' that rapidly enhances skills. Participants discussed practical cooperation methods for mutual growth among universities by sharing experiences in designing and operating field-oriented educational programs.
Beyond simple case sharing, intensive training for smooth and transparent project operations was also conducted. NILE provided guidance on the 'AID Program Operation Manual and Quality Management Guidelines,' and a professional accounting firm offered training on managing government subsidies and addressing audit issues, reinforcing the transparency and integrity of project funding.
Having achieved significant success in its first year with over 16,000 adult learners participating, NILE plans to expand the scale and benefits of the program this year.
Kim Wol-yong, President of the National Institute for Lifelong Education, emphasized, 'AI and digital technologies are rapidly changing the way we work and the standards for job skills. Building on this success, we will actively support 38 universities, 17 regions, and over 20 job categories this year to ensure that workers acquire tailored AI and digital skills.'
NILE aims to use this training as a stepping stone to strengthen close cooperation with participating universities and continuously expand a field-centered lifelong learning environment in AI and digital skills, enabling adult learners to respond proactively to the rapidly changing job landscape.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.