The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport is set to develop practical professionals by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) with smart city technologies.
Starting September 29, the ministry will invite proposals from four-year universities nationwide for the 'AI·Smart City Innovation Talent Development Project (2026-2028),' it announced on September 28.
The initiative aims to cultivate practical talent equipped with AI and smart city integration skills, in line with the widespread adoption of AI technology across urban sectors. Since 2009, the ministry has conducted specialized education in smart cities in three phases, producing a total of 10,091 professionals by last year.
In this fourth phase, four universities will be selected. Eligible institutions must operate departments related to AI and smart cities or offer specialized courses by linking two or more departments. The ministry aims to select at least two universities outside the capital region to foster local talent.
Selected universities will receive support for scholarships, domestic and international internships, and industry-academia collaboration costs. Each university will receive 280 million won in 2024, with funding levels adjusted based on annual evaluations starting in 2027. Universities are also required to match 25% of the total project cost.
The curriculum will focus on integrating AI technology into existing smart city education. At least 30% of the courses must apply AI technology to the smart city sector, and programs linking industry and local governments, as well as domestic and international internships, will be mandatory.
The ministry plans to accept proposal applications through the Korea Agency for Infrastructure Technology Advancement on October 28-29.
Yoon Jong-soo, head of the Urban Economy Division at the Ministry of Land, stated, "AI cities are a crucial area that determines the competitiveness of nations and cities. Through this project, we aim to nurture integrated talent equipped with practical skills demanded by the industry, ensuring that our country secures a leading position in the global AI city competition."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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