Organizations Such as KFSTS, Association of Women Scientists and Engineers, and Citizens’ Coalition for Realizing a Rightful Science and Technology Society
Accelerate Policy, Research, and Talent Development Initiatives in Busan
The "Busan Science and Technology Professionals Policy Forum," which was officially launched on August 11, is rapidly establishing itself as a policy implementation platform for the local science and technology community.
This forum, organized by Busan Metropolitan City and the Busan Institute for Science and Technology Promotion (BISTEP, President Kim Youngbu), has seen participating organizations move swiftly since its inception, continuing a range of initiatives aimed at science and technology development led by the region.
Among the 123 key national policy tasks announced by the government, the "Leading the World with an Innovative Economy" section includes core goals such as expanding the R&D budget, creating an environment for basic research, and fostering key talent. Analysts point out that building a research ecosystem driven by local leadership is essential for the successful implementation of these goals. There is growing anticipation that the solidarity and execution capabilities of the organizations participating in this forum will serve as an accelerator for strengthening Busan's competitiveness in science and technology.
The Busan-Ulsan Regional Association of the Korean Federation of Science and Technology Societies (KFSTS) (President Jin Sungho, Professor at Pusan National University) is facilitating regular communication among local science and technology opinion leaders to support policy implementation and discover collaborative models. On August 13, the association invited Lee Sangwook, head of the Kori Nuclear Power Headquarters at Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power, to a roundtable discussion themed "Wise Utilization of Nuclear Power in a New Era," focusing on the development direction of the nuclear power industry, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
The Busan-Ulsan-Gyeongnam Branch of the Association of Women Scientists and Engineers (Chairperson Oh Hyunju) is working to produce convergence research outcomes, centering on multidisciplinary women scientists and engineers. Recently, the branch has been actively running capacity-building programs for researchers, such as basic research design education for both early-career and senior researchers.
The Southeast Regional Headquarters of the Citizens’ Coalition for Realizing a Rightful Science and Technology Society (Representative Wang Jaephil, Professor at Pukyong National University), a civil society-based organization, is conducting policy proposal activities with the aim of improving citizens' quality of life through science and technology. Recently, the group has been focusing on analyzing current issues by holding research meetings among members on the latest trends in the medical and bio fields.
In addition to supporting industry and research, the activities of the main participating organizations are expanding into social contribution, including youth education and community engagement.
The Busan Science and Technology Council (Executive Director Kang Chunjin) operates the "Junior Dabaksa" science experience program for youth, with BISTEP researchers directly participating in lectures to enhance future talents’ understanding of science and technology. The Busan-Ulsan Regional Association of the KFSTS has also agreed with the Busan Metropolitan Office of Education to expand special lectures on science and technology career paths for high school students every year.
Kim Youngbu, President of BISTEP, emphasized, "For Busan to expand its science and technology innovation ecosystem and foster local industries, close cooperation within the science and technology community is more vital than ever. BISTEP will serve as a collaborative hub platform, connecting local science and technology professionals and redoubling efforts for Busan’s development through the Science and Technology Professionals Policy Forum."
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