NEHU to offer Korean language programs following MoU with IKBCC

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaOctober 25, 2024

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong, and the Indo-Korean Business Cultural Centre (IKBCC) of South Korea during a grand ceremony held on October 22 at the Golden Jubilee Auditorium on the NEHU campus. This significant partnership aims to promote intellectual exchanges and create opportunities for students through international internships, scholarships, and career pathways in both India and South Korea.

One of the key initiatives stemming from this collaboration is the introduction of Korean language courses at NEHU, which will empower students and enhance their career prospects. Professor PS Shukla, Vice Chancellor of NEHU, stated that this partnership will strengthen ties between India and Korea and provide students with exposure to East Asian culture through cultural exchanges and employment opportunities.

The Department of Linguistics has been designated as the nodal department responsible for developing various training and certification modules in Korean language and culture. The agreement includes plans to enrich the educational experience of students, foster greater educational and cultural ties between NEHU and IKBCC, and promote research and academic excellence programs. It will also encourage faculty and student engagement in cultural exchanges and employment opportunities within Korean companies, thereby promoting East Asian culture and language studies among Indian youth.

The MoU was signed by Col. Omkar Singh representing NEHU and Dr. Zena Chung, the Founder Director of IKBCC, in the presence of key dignitaries, including Professor PK Goyal, Director of IIM Shillong, Professor A. K. Singh, Chairperson of the MoU Committee at NEHU, and Dr. Saralin A. Lyngdoh, Head of the Department of Linguistics. Professor Streamlet Dkhar, who played a pivotal role in facilitating the MoU, was also present, along with deans and heads from various departments at NEHU.

As part of the agreement, Professor Streamlet Dkhar has been designated as the Academic Coordinator, while Dr. Saralin A. Lyngdoh will serve as the Course Coordinator for future collaborative activities. Following the signing ceremony, Dr. Zena Chung engaged in detailed discussions with faculty members from the Nodal Department to outline a roadmap for productive engagements and the implementation of the MoU’s objectives.

In the initial phase, the parties aim to develop a multilingual dictionary encompassing Khasi, Hindi, Korean, and English within a defined timeframe. Additionally, the Nodal Department will launch a course in Korean language and culture beginning in July 2025. This implementation phase will also see the introduction of Khasi and Hindi language programs in Korean institutions through a faculty exchange program.

Dr. Chung also held an interactive session with aspiring students of NEHU, where she introduced various aspects of Korean society, culture, and opportunities. Her engaging presentation received a positive response from the students, who actively participated in the discussion by raising questions that were thoroughly addressed by Dr. Chung.