JST Shared University, operated as part of the Regional Innovation-Centered University Support System (RISE), held the "2026 JST Shared University Convergence Major Orientation" at 10:00 a.m. on the 13th in the 77th Anniversary Memorial Hall on the first floor of Jinsudang at Jeonbuk National University (JBNU). The event marked a vigorous first step this year toward cultivating interdisciplinary talent.

The event was attended by Yang O-bong, President of JBNU; Kim Jong-hoon, Deputy Governor for Economic Affairs of Jeollabuk-do; Jeong Byung-jong, Head of the Jeonbuk RISE Center; Son Jeong-min, Director of the JBNU RISE Project Group; Jang Min-seok, Director of the RISE Project Group at Gunsan National University; and Kwon O-sang, Deputy Director of the RISE Project Group at Wonkwang University. These leading figures from the region and universities encouraged the students as they embarked on their new start.

JST Shared University provided guidance on curriculum structure, class operation methods, course registration, and overall academic administration to 330 undergraduates and 90 graduate students selected for the 2026 Convergence Major, joining them at the start of their new academic journey.

The orientation went beyond a simple explanation of policies. It was designed to help students independently plan their academic roadmaps and to concretely establish directions for growing into the interdisciplinary professionals who will lead future industries.

In particular, the program offered a comprehensive introduction to various completion pathways and requirements — including the Convergence Major and foundational major courses, Microdegree programs, and graduate Micro-Master's programs — to support students in developing systematic academic plans.

The university also provided detailed guidance on JST Shared University's academic administration system, the Innovation Talent Support Fund, customized student support programs, extracurricular programs, and ways to utilize the JST SynergyUP platform.

A Q&A session and participatory programs further strengthened communication with students and enhanced practical understanding.

The event also included a certificate presentation ceremony for students who completed the Microdegree program in the second semester of the 2025 academic year, celebrating the achievements of senior completers and motivating new students.

Choi Jin-ha, Head of JST Shared University, said, "This orientation is a practical starting point for growing into interdisciplinary talent," adding, "Through the shared-university model that brings together the region, universities, and industry, we will do our utmost to cultivate the key personnel who will lead future industries."