Jeonbuk National University (JBNU) has newly joined the Honam–Jeju regional project group of the Korea Foundation for Women in Science and Technology (WISET, Chair Moon Aeri) for the "Regional STEM Women Talent Development Project (R-WeSET 2.0)" and will now actively engage in cultivating women talent in science and technology at the regional level.

The Honam–Jeju R-WeSET Project Group is organized with Jeju National University as the lead university and Mokpo National University and JBNU participating as entrusted universities. With JBNU’s participation, the region’s education and career support system will extend to the Jeonbuk area, further strengthening the ecosystem for nurturing women in STEM.

The project is being promoted with the goal of reducing disparities in STEM education and career opportunities between regions. WISET and the project group established a cooperative framework following a memorandum of agreement signed in February, and will operate stage‑tailored programs for about 5,500 female students in the Honam–Jeju region each year.

For middle and high school students, the project will provide engineering experience and career exploration opportunities. For university STEM students, it will support programs to strengthen major competencies and plan career paths.

In particular, JBNU plans to focus on cultivating practice‑oriented talent by operating field training programs linked with companies and institutions centered on AI and bio, which are key regional industries.

Professor Min Ji-ho (Division of Chemical Engineering, JBNU), the project’s principal investigator, stated, "Through Jeonbuk National University’s participation, we will further strengthen the Honam–Jeju system for cultivating women talent in STEM and establish a practical education model that connects the region and industry."

Meanwhile, as part of this project, JBNU will operate the "J-Leaders Program" to nurture the next generation of women leaders in science and technology. JBNU is recruiting team members among female students in JBNU STEM departments (undergraduate years 2–4 and graduate students) until April 24.

Selected participants will take part in various programs, including advanced research and experimental projects in their majors, practical experience linked to on‑campus laboratories, industry site visits, and presentation of research results. In addition, activity grants for team‑led autonomous programs, conference participation fees, and registration fees will be provided. Opportunities to build portfolios for strengthening major competencies and designing career paths will also be offered.