The Seoul Metropolitan Government has launched a project to establish a youth startup assistance center near UOS in order to support young entrepreneurs. Should the project be implemented, it is expected that UOS faculty members will conduct related education programs at the center. In addition, the number of jobs created by the construction of the center gives some hope about revitalization of the northeastern region of Seoul.

The location of the center came from an issue between two middle schools near UOS. Jeonil Middle School and Jeonnong Middle School, located right next to the southern boundary of UOS, have been discussing a merger of the two schools due to the continuous decrease in the number of students. Actually, the total number of students for both schools, which was around 2,000 in the early 2000s, has dropped to 1200 in 2015. Seoul City is expecting that the number of students will keep decreasing, even considering the development that can happen in the area.

Since some part of the land that the two schools are lying on will be idle land if the merger happens, the city government has to consider what this space should be used for. UOS did not miss the chance and suggested building a center that provides support and education services for youths who want to establish businesses. The city is currently considering this proposal.

An official from the Seoul government said, “it will be possible for the faculty members of UOS to directly participate in education programs at the center and it will be possible to realize cooperation among industry, academia, and government.” The official also said that the city will apply citizens’ opinions about desired facilities to the planning. “Utilization of idle land in the city will basically aim towards invigoration of the local environment.”


By Jo Geon-ho
 

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