Jeonnam Students Launch Full-Scale "Yeongsangang River Restoration" Activities

The Jeonnam Provincial Office of Education announced on the 9th that it is launching a large-scale ecological activity aimed at improving the water quality of the Yeongsangang River, marking the third year of the '2025 Path of Coexistence (Waterway·Forest Path) Project.'

Jeonnam Provincial Office of Education is promoting the "2025 Path of Symbiosis (Waterway Forest Path) Project" with Jeonnam students. Photo by Jeonnam Provincial Office of Education

The 'Path of Coexistence Project' is an ecological and environmental education initiative designed to bring about tangible change in schools during the climate crisis era. Over the past two years, it has achieved results in various areas, including enhancing understanding of the local ecosystem, practicing environmental protection, and collaborating with the community. The number of clubs participating in this project increased from 155 teams in 2023 to 300 teams in 2024. This year, a record-high 354 teams and 4,376 students from elementary, middle, high, and special schools are participating.

The core theme of this year's project is improving the water quality of the Yeongsangang River. The Office of Education has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Yeongsangang River Basin Environmental Office and will implement a 1-mentor-to-many-mentees mentoring system. Through this, students will analyze the causes of water pollution in the Yeongsangang River basin and seek solutions. Under the guidance of experts, students will investigate water quality, develop purification measures, and propose them to the local community. The results of these activities will be shared on the 'Digital Ecological Exploration Map Web.'

A teacher from Myoryang Jungang Elementary School, who has participated in the club for three years, said, "Exploring nature together with the children has deepened our relationships, and the most rewarding part is seeing the students develop a sense of responsibility to protect the environment themselves." A teacher from Yeongsanpo Girls' Middle School stated, "The most fulfilling moments come when I notice changes in the students' attitudes, words, and actions toward the environment through club activities. This year as well, I will work together with the students for the sake of the Earth and the Yeongsangang River."

Superintendent Kim Daejung encouraged, "I believe your efforts to improve the water quality of the Yeongsangang River will bring about positive changes in the local community. Please join forces on this journey toward a sustainable future."