"Jeonnam Education Support Offices Overlook Local Companies"... Assemblyman Lim Hyungseok Criticizes Direct Contracts

Yeonggwang Achieves 100% While Shinan and Yeongam Remain Below 50%
Criticism of Wando Special Education Zone for "Overemphasis on Maritime Sector"

On November 10, Assemblyman Lim Hyungseok of the Jeonnam Provincial Council (Democratic Party of Korea, Gwangyang 1) strongly criticized the performance of direct contracts with local companies and the operation of educational development special zones during an administrative audit targeting the Yeonggwang, Wando, Shinan, and Jindo Education Support Offices.

In particular, Assemblyman Lim pointed out that the Wando Educational Special Zone is excessively focused on the maritime sector, emphasizing the need to expand students' options.

Hyungseok Lim, Former Member of Jeonnam Provincial Assembly

Based on data submitted by the Jeonnam Provincial Office of Education, Assemblyman Lim analyzed the performance of direct contracts with local companies. This year, the Yeonggwang and Gangjin Education Support Offices achieved a 100% rate of direct contracts with local companies. Notably, Yeonggwang saw a sharp increase from less than 50% last year to 100% this year. In contrast, Wando recorded over 60%, but Yeongam and Shinan remained below 50%.

Assemblyman Lim stated, "I raised concerns about direct contracts with local companies last year. While some regions have improved, many areas still show insufficient progress. The improvement in Yeonggwang Education Support Office is a positive sign, but other education support offices are still lacking."

He continued, "Given the difficult financial situation in Jeonnam's education sector, the budget needs to be used more efficiently. Revitalizing local businesses will lead to increased local tax revenue, which in turn will create a virtuous cycle for regional development."

Status of direct contracts with local companies by education support offices and frontline schools in Jeonnam Province. Provided by Jeonnam Provincial Council

Assemblyman Lim also delivered strong criticism regarding the Wando Educational Development Special Zone project. He said, "Out of 22 cities and counties, 21 have been designated as educational development special zones, but Wando is focused solely on the maritime special zone. While I understand the reflection of fishing village characteristics, students should be offered opportunities to learn and choose from a variety of fields."

He particularly emphasized, "Counties have few opportunities to bridge the educational gap with the Seoul metropolitan area. Not only Wando, but other regional education offices should also prioritize student-centered education."

In response, Lee Cheolyoung, Head of the Wando Education Office, explained, "The educational development special zone project proceeded according to plans submitted by the local government, and the Wando County Mayor's vision for the fisheries sector was reflected."

He added, "The most important task is to make Wando High School a prestigious school. The reorganization of fisheries-related departments is also included in the project proposal. We will work with Wando County to implement improvements."