Charles Sturt University (CSU) continues to forge collaborative networks and alliances with influential international institutions, with the signing of two new agreements with the South Korean-based Kongju National University (KNU).

 

It coincides with a two and a half day visit to the CSU Bathurst and Orange campuses by a high ranking KNU delegation, which includes Dr Jaehyun Kim, the President of KNU, Dr Hyobum Lee, the Dean of Office of Academic Affairs, and Dr Gihyung Ryu, the Dean of College of Industrial Sciences.

 

Professor Ian Goulter, CSU Vice-Chancellor and President, will meet with KNU delegates at the CSU Bathurst Campus on Friday 9 May to formalise an Articulation agreement that will provide KNU students with credits towards a CSU degree in food and nutrition courses.

 

Further opportunities for collaboration in agriculture and animal science courses will also be explored.

 

A student exchange agreement, which fosters international understanding among students, will also be formalised with the CSU Faculty of Education, offering students opportunities for overseas practicum experience with South Korean schools linked to KNU.

 

There are distinct similarities between the South Korean based university and CSU. KNU grew from an Agricultural College, established more than 100 years ago and from a Provincial Teacher's College, which was established in 1948. It has grown quickly since elevating to University status in 1991. It now consists of three specialised campuses, six colleges and seven graduate schools, with almost 1 000 staff, educating more than 22 000 students.

 

Professor Goulter says “The MoU with KNU builds on Charles Sturt University’s strength and reputation, both nationally and internationally. The areas in which we are collaborating with KNU are acknowledged strengths of each institution.”

 

A MoU was previously signed with KNU on 28 June 2007 when a CSU delegation travelled to South Korea to discuss opportunities. That was followed by another visit to KNU by CSU Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administrative), Professor Ross Chambers, in April this year.

 

Professor Chambers says “This is a wonderful opportunity for international teaching and research links. KNU is a leader in Korea in fields of great strategic importance for CSU.”