Mokpo City announced on the 27th efforts to build AI, big data, and IoT educational infrastructure to nurture professionals optimized for the 4th Industrial Revolution and create quality jobs since the 8th Local Election era. The "AI Metaverse Center" opened in October of last year through cooperation between Mokpo City and Smart Talent Development Institute at the former Mokpo Cheongho Middle School, providing customized digital convergence training to local students, youth, and unemployed individuals. Two programs, three classes in big data analysis service development across 6-month free courses. Facilities include chroma key and AR/VR spaces for digital new technology learning regardless of time and place. The city produces approximately 100 local talents annually and provides AI and big data specialized experience and education to approximately 2,500 residents, students, and employed workers.
Results: 1st cohort (completed March) — 15 students, 12 eligible for employment (100% employment rate, excluding military service and academic track); 2nd cohort (completed June) — 18 students, 6 hired as corporate program developers. Post-graduation support: 6-month continued enrollment in job-linking programs including resume writing, portfolio revision, and interview seminars. Mayor Park Hong-ryul: "For local youth capability enhancement in the era of digital transformation, we are providing multi-faceted support in 4th industrial fields including AI and big data — we will do our best so that youth in Mokpo and Jeonnam region can move one step closer to employment through the center's programs."
