[영문] INTRODUCING ‘KUWAIT CENTER’ IN THE CAMPUS (By Hur Jae-seok(Student Reporter))

In a globalized society that we live in today, Korean universities are in the process of involving themselves in globalization, cooperating with other nations with education. Recently, Hanyang University took a huge step into having more diversified culture in the campus. Kuwait center was newly established in the campus to have active relationship with educational centers in Kuwait, and potentially other nations around Middle East. Saranghandae, Hanyang University campus newsletter, had a conversation with the first manager of the center, professor Alnajjar.

Kuwait Center, Key to Globalization

On March 8th, Hanyang University announced the establishment of Kuwait Center in the campus with professor Alnajjar of PAAET(Public Authority for Applied Education and Training) to be in charge. The professor will be in charge of the center for two years. The center was established to have exchange students of both sides for diversified environment and globalization. PAAET is the largest educational center in Middle East that Kuwait government established in 1982 in order to train individuals for the industrial and economic development of the country. With the help of several universities and training centers under the name of PAAET, Hanyang University established a separate center in the campus for active relationship.

When this project was first discussed in PAAET, the reactions were positive according to Alnajjar. Other educational centers and universities were also positive, and soon began cooperation with PAAET to have more active relationship with Hanyang University. With numerous advantages that Middle East nations potentially had, it was Hanyang University that offered to have educational relations with Kuwait. “Korea was already in a good relationship with Kuwait especially due to similarity in culture of close family bonds.” said Alnajjar. “This would be a great opportunity for both sides to exchange valuable resources with each other.”

When Alnajjar visited Korea in 2013, he had various meetings with other universities. However, out of all, it was Hanyang University that fits well with PAAET. “Hanyang University is not only considered as one of top universities in Korea, but is playing an active role to become a globally renowned university.” said Alnajjar. Through this opportunity, Hanyang University along with other universities and educational facilities are looking forward to have active relationship with Middle East.

Hanyang Leads the Relationship with Kuwait

Kuwait Center is expected to bring countless opportunities and advantages for both sides. “Since Korea is one of the best countries with outstanding educational system and companies it would be a huge boost to Kuwait.” said Alnajjar. Establishing subsidiaries in Kuwait and sending Kuwait students to Korea will allow job opportunities and educational value to students. “Not only students we are looking forward to have professors, scientists, engineers, and researchers to be exchanged for the betterment of future” On top of mutual benefits, Hanyang University can benefit by having diverse students with different cultural backgrounds.

Kuwait Center in Hanyang University is meaningful in the sense that it is the first attempt of a Korean university to expand the scope of education and interaction with Kuwait. Hanyang's education can be a good example to education centers of Kuwait and Kuwait can allow Hanyang to help their students to gain valuable international experiences, which is crucial in order to be competitive. More steps of Hanyang University in the Middle East can be expected in the future.