The Jeonbuk National University (JBNU) Institute of French and African Studies, led by Director Professor Jo Hwarim, will hold a visiting humanities lecture series titled 'Closer to Citizens: Encountering Africa' from May 15 to September 11.

The series will be held over eight sessions at the library of Jeonju Shinheung High School. Domestic Africa experts will deliver lectures for students and teachers in the Jeonbuk region who are interested in Africa and the humanities.

The program is part of the Humanities and Social Sciences 3.0 (HK3.0) project in which the JBNU Institute of French and African Studies participates. It was planned to foster a regional humanities ecosystem by linking academia and society and sharing knowledge.

In particular, this visiting humanities program is designed to provide an accessible yet in-depth understanding of Africa. It is expected to serve as an opportunity to connect the local community with the world through the humanities.

At the first lecture on May 15, Kim Seong-jin, Team Leader of the Ubuntu Content Team at Yonhap News Agency, will give a talk titled 'Afro Jarakgil: Our Future Encountered in Africa.' Based on political, social, and cultural changes in Africa, everyday life on site, and his experience as a correspondent, Kim will share vivid accounts.

Professor Jo Hwarim, Director of the Institute, said, "I hope this visiting humanities program for students and teachers in the Jeonbuk region will be a meaningful opportunity to broaden understanding of Africa."