Apple to Establish 'Developer Academy and R&D Support Center' at POSTECH Next Year

[Asia Economy Reporter Eunmo Koo] Apple will establish the 'Apple Developer Academy,' which provides free professional education to aspiring developers, in Pohang, Gyeongbuk, next year. An 'Apple Manufacturing Research and Development (R&D) Support Center' to assist the digital transformation of domestic small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will also be set up at POSTECH. Apple stated that this announcement is part of its major investment to strengthen economic development and innovation across regions.

On the 27th, Apple announced that it will open the Developer Academy and R&D Support Center at POSTECH in the first half of next year in collaboration with Gyeongsangbuk-do Province, Pohang City, and Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH).

The Apple Developer Academy is a project-based program designed to support entrepreneurs, developers, and designers aspiring to create apps within the global iOS (Apple operating system) app ecosystem, helping them develop apps and create jobs.

The Developer Academy is open to anyone aged 19 or older residing in Korea, regardless of educational background or coding experience. Selected students will receive the Apple education program free of charge, which runs for nine months. The Apple iOS ecosystem is understood to contribute to the creation of 200,000 jobs in Korea.

The Manufacturing R&D Support Center will provide education related to smart processes and eco-friendly technologies to domestic SMEs. Apple will directly support domestic manufacturing SMEs with its experts and equipment to help them upgrade their technologies, processes, and products.

Additionally, Apple will collaborate with schools and local education offices nationwide to supply thousands of iPads to schools and low-income households across the country. Apple's curricula, 'Everyone Can Code' and 'Everyone Can Create,' will also be offered in Korean starting next year, along with free resources for teachers.

Yoon Goo, General Manager of Apple Korea, said, "We have expanded a meaningful investment that will support the creation of future jobs," adding, "By sharing essential skills and knowledge with Korean developers, entrepreneurs, and students, we will contribute to creating national economic opportunities."