DGIST President Kunwoo Lee announced the successful hosting of the “University Innovation Forum: Out of the Box” at the Crystal Ballroom, Banyan Tree Club & Spa, Seoul. Held in celebration of DGIST’s 20th anniversary, the event aimed to explore the evolving role of universities in a rapidly changing world and to discuss pathways for university innovation. President Lee, along with innovation leaders from leading global universities, gathered at the forum to share diverse perspectives on educational innovation.
Key speakers included Chas Bountra, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Innovation at Oxford University, and Mike Magee, President of Minerva University. In addition, over 100 attendees from the domestic and international educational sectors participated in meaningful discussions. In the first session, presentations were made on the theme, 'Innovation Strategies of Leading Educational Institutions'.
DGIST President Lee Kunwoo delivered a presentation titled “The University of Needs: The Power of Convergence and Innovation”, outlining a strategy for universities to transcend traditional boundaries and evolve to meet global demands. Chas Bountra, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Innovation at Oxford University, spoke on "Oxford in Innovation", where he underscored the significance of innovative leadership and entrepreneurship. He also emphasized the vital role of universities in spearheading innovation to tackle global challenges.
Mike Magee, President of Minerva University, presented 'Minerva Forward' introducing an innovative education model without a physical campus and its global success stories while suggesting the possibility of expanding into Korea.
The second session featured a panel discussion on the theme, "The Direction of Educational Innovation". Moderated by Professor Lee Byung Jong of Sookmyung Women’s University, the panel included previous speakers as well as Yeom Jaeho, President of Taejae University. Together, they engaged in an in-depth discussion on the innovation strategies being developed by universities worldwide and how these institutions can adapt to thrive in the future.
Professor Kang Hye-kyung of Open Cyber University of Korea said, “It was truly impressive to see the world’s leading education innovators gather in one place to discuss the future. In particular, hearing each university’s innovation strategies was incredibly inspiring and provided valuable insights into the direction universities around the world should be heading”.
DGIST President Lee Kunwoo stated, “This forum has brought together global education leaders to exchange innovative ideas and to redefine the role and survival strategies of universities for the future”. He added, “I hope we continue to foster ongoing collaboration and discussion in the future”.
