Sookmyung Women’s University, through UNESCO’s University Twinning and Networking Scheme (UNITWIN), has chosen Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) to host a program focusing on women’s entrepreneurship participation.
The program, “Sookmyung UNESCO UNITWIN Digital and Leadership Training,” involves female students from South Korea and Indonesia. The participants will join a series of programs held from July 24th to 28th, 2023.
“We can see the low participation of women in the workforce. Indeed, currently, women dominate universities at around 54%, which is progress as women can now pursue higher education,” said UGM’s Vice Rector for Education and Learning Professor Wening Udasmoro in her opening statement on Monday (24/7).
“However, this does not apply in the job market. The dominance of men is still higher than that of women.”
Professor Udasmoro expressed her appreciation for the women-only Sookmyung Women’s University.
“Institutions like this provide broad opportunities for women to be on equal footing with men. Of course, I am thankful for the appointment of UGM as the host this time,” Professor Udasmoro added.
This leadership training program for female students brings expert lecturers, professors, and participants from South Korea and Indonesia to share insights about their respective countries.
Professor Park Younghoon, a Sookmyung Women’s University representative, highlighted this program’s importance for both countries.
“I have been studying the characteristics of Indonesia for a long time, both in terms of its geography and people. I believe South Korea and Indonesia have some similarities, especially because our countries still need to encourage women’s participation in various fields,” said Professor Park.
Sookmyung Women’s University has actively promoted women’s education since 1906, the Joseon Dynasty. Since then, Sookmyung Women’s University has cooperated with other countries to expand educational opportunities for women.
The Sookmyung UNESCO UNITWIN program has been conducted in four Southeast Asian countries: Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Indonesia. Students will receive various training on entrepreneurship, leadership, and participation in the digital era.
“Our hope with this program is to create ample job opportunities for female workers. We aim to encourage and enable even married women to pursue their dreams,” added Professor Park.
Author: Tasya