The Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) is launching a program that allows local residents to propose solutions to regional issues using science and technology.
On September 23, MSIT announced the first "Local Issue Solution Challenge." This program will start with ideas from residents, who are most familiar with local problems, and seek solutions through the application of science and technology.
The initiative will be led by 17 research support teams across the country, and selected outstanding ideas will be developed into specific projects in collaboration with local research support teams and the proposers.
After public presentations and evaluations by expert and citizen panels, a total of six outstanding projects will be selected, including one grand prize winner, two excellence awards, and three merit awards. The grand prize will receive 10 million won, each excellence award will receive 6 million won, and each merit award will receive 3 million won, totaling 31 million won in prize money, along with awards from the Minister of Science and ICT.
The selected projects will be linked to related initiatives starting in 2027, focusing on research and development (R&D) and field validation.
Additionally, an expert challenge will be held alongside this initiative. Ten projects will be selected from 135 social problem-solving R&D projects conducted between 2020 and 2025, along with proposals from field experts. These will undergo public presentations, panel discussions, and expert consultations, culminating in the selection of three projects that will also receive awards from the Minister of Science and ICT.
Koo Hyuk-chae, the First Vice Minister of Science and ICT, stated, "By solving important local issues proposed by residents through science and technology and research and development, we aim to help them directly experience the significant role that science and technology plays in regional growth, as well as in improving their lives and transforming their communities."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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