-  extend the operation of joint program with UNU until 2018
- contribute to promoting environmental sustainability of developing countries since 2004

GIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, President ž Young Joon Kim) and UN University (UNU) signed an agreement to extend the operation of the “Joint Program on Science and Technology for Sustainability” and decided to cooperate for the next 5 years in order to assist global society reinforce capabilities to deal with issues in the environment sector.

UN University is the think-tank of the United Nations. It was established in 1983 with the resolution of the UN General Assembly and charged with addressing pending issues facing humanity such as peace-keeping, human welfare and environmental conservation. UNU is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan and operates specialized research institutions in many countries.

GIST was recognized as an official partner of UNU in December 2003, which was the first time among domestic organizations. GIST has implemented a number of programs and workshops since 2004, including a research program led by International Environmental Analysis and Education Center (IEAEC) aimed at assisting developing countries in Asia and Africa to strengthen capabilities in the environmental sector and an internship program to cultivate environment experts.

In accordance with the agreement, the Joint Program on Science and Technology for Sustainability will be extended by 5 years till 2018 and GIST will carry out a variety of programs in order to cultivate global leaders in science technology and education relating to sustainable environment conservation.

Rector of UNU, Dr. David Malone, said “The joint program implemented by UNU and GIST over the past 10 years was the most successful one among the many programs operated by UNU. I expect the excellent education and research capabilities of GIST will continue to make big contributions to assist countries lacking in technology and workforce to improve capabilities in the environment sector.”

Professor Kihong Park(School of Environment Science and Engineering), Director of IEAEC at GIST, said “This agreement testifies to the fact that GIST has an important role to play as a global leader so as to assist developing countries to promote environmental sustainability by strengthening capabilities in science technology and education. We will make continuous efforts to help reinforce the capabilities of developing countries.”