Gyeongkuk National University signs MOU with forestry training center to boost field education

Gyeongkuk National University signed an MOU with the Forestry Officials Training Center of the National Forestry Cooperatives Federation on Thursday to promote the development of forestry professionals and strengthen education and research in the field.

The signing ceremony was attended by Gyeongkuk National University President Jeong Tae-ju, admissions cooperation office head Kim Byeong-gyu, faculty from the forestry science program, and Forestry Officials Training Center Director Son Byeong-seon, along with other officials from both institutions.

The agreement aims to reinforce field-centered education for forestry science students and expand the foundation for cooperation between the university and specialized forestry institutions.

The Forestry Officials Training Center, located in Cheongsong-gun, North Gyeongsang Province, is equipped with classrooms, accommodation facilities and a practice forest spanning approximately 591 hectares.

The center also offers practical training in drone-based forest surveying, geographic information systems using QGIS, forest management and forestry machinery — resources expected to be used for the university's field practicum and extracurricular programs.

The two institutions plan to pursue joint initiatives including the exchange of education and research information in the forestry sector, shared use of educational facilities and equipment, student field training, co-development of educational programs, and career and employment support. They also intend to expand internship and job placement opportunities and strengthen industry-academic cooperation with the National Forestry Cooperatives Federation and regional forestry cooperatives.

"We expect this agreement to strengthen the foundation for field education in forestry science and enhance students' practical capabilities," President Jeong said. "We will raise the quality of education by expanding cooperation with specialized institutions."