On October 20, 2023, the KT&G Scholarship Foundation held a momentous certificate awarding ceremony at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), recognizing 33 outstanding domestic and international student researchers. This event, attended by key figures including KT&G Scholarship Foundation Chairman Kim Seung-taek and KIST Future Foundation Chairman Kim Yong-jik, marked another significant step in their joint mission to nurture future leaders in the fields of science and technology.
The scholarship recipients, who were selected based on their exceptional academic and research achievements, include students from various backgrounds, including nations such as Belarus, Mongolia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Bangladesh, and China. This program, initiated by KT&G in 2021, has been pivotal for both local and international scholars, whose contributions and dedication to research were recognized through this initiative.
Chairman Kim Seung-taek expressed his hopes during the ceremony, stating, "This scholarship is hoped to strengthen the research of outstanding talents and serve as a stepping stone for them to advance toward their dreams." His words encapsulate the foundation's commitment not only to educational support but also to fostering innovative thinkers who can take on global challenges.
The selection process for the scholarships was rigorous, involving comprehensive evaluations conducted by the KIST scholarship review committee. Students' research papers and accomplishments were assessed, ensuring only the most deserving scholars received this prestigious recognition. This year's class of scholars exemplifies excellence across various research fields, underscoring the importance of academic rigor and dedication. Notably, this year's awardees once again reflect the growing trend of international participation, bridging cultural and educational gaps through scholarship opportunities.
Since the program's inception, the KT&G Scholarship Foundation has provided support to 124 scholars, showcasing its unwavering dedication to educational advancement. The foundation was established by KT&G, driven by its corporate philosophy of being a "company of togetherness." This initiative is part of their broader commitment to social contribution, aiming to empower students who might otherwise be forced to abandon their studies due to financial constraints.
KIST, recognized for its cutting-edge research and development efforts, serves as the ideal partner for KT&G as they pursue their goal of nurturing the next generation of scientific innovators. The collaboration between these institutions reflects the growing synergy between industry and academia, driving progress and innovation forward.
Looking to the future, both organizations reaffirmed their commitment to not only supporting these scholars but also to continuing their scholarship initiatives. Kim Seung-taek emphasized the foundation's goal to evolve its programs, aiming to cultivate global talents who will lead change and innovation within society.
Through these educational programs, KT&G has already seen the fruits of its labor, with over 10,000 students having benefited from its scholarship initiatives since inception. This remarkable number highlights the foundation's transformative impact on the academic journeys of countless individuals.
While the ceremony was celebratory, it also served as a reminder of the challenges many students face today. By investing not just financial resources but also creating networks and opportunities, KT&G and KIST are contributing to constructing pathways for young researchers to thrive.
Conclusively, the KT&G Scholarship Foundation is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of science and technology education both domestically and internationally. The commitment demonstrated at this recent ceremony serves as reassurance of their continued support for bright minds. It is initiatives like these which not only provide scholarships but create lasting impacts on the scientific community and the world at large.
