As tensions rise over the failed vote on the integration with Kongju National University and the promotion of the glocal university initiative, the Chungnam National University Alumni Association has stepped in to mediate.
On September 18, the Alumni Association issued an official statement titled "We Must Open a Bold Future for Chungnam University Through Communication and Integration Beyond Conflict." In the statement, the association expressed deep concern over the recent internal conflicts arising from the university's integration efforts and the process of gathering opinions, calling for responsible leadership from the university administration and sincere dialogue among members.
The Alumni Association acknowledged the necessity of integration in the rapidly changing higher education landscape. They stated, "In the context of declining school-age populations, intensified competition among universities, and concentration in the metropolitan area, the integration and glocal university initiative are crucial tasks for Chungnam University to enhance its global competitiveness."
However, they drew a clear line regarding the approach to these initiatives. The association emphasized, "In the process of determining the university's future, we must not prioritize speed and results over the right direction." They added, "The academic history and identity that Chungnam University has built, the rights that students should enjoy, and the brand value that alumni and students should take pride in must be adequately considered."
Specifically, the association pointed to the procedural legitimacy issues and strong backlash that arose during the recent vote on integration and the process of gathering opinions. They stated, "We must listen to the diverse voices of the university community, including faculty, staff, students, and alumni, and establish transparent procedures that members can accept. Policies without genuine consent and participation from students are unlikely to succeed."
In response to students who are strongly opposed to the integration, the association urged a warm solidarity and rational response. They promised, "If it is about protecting students' rights and dignity, alumni will stand with them, and we will closely monitor the university administration's policies and processes, voicing our concerns as needed."
However, the association expressed concern over the escalating internal conflict following the failed vote. They cautioned, "The current conflict should not lead to emotional confrontations or unilateral severance. We urge everyone to maintain dialogue with the university and to consider together what the wisest and most prudent choice is for the future of our alma mater."
To address the situation, the Alumni Association has formally communicated three key demands to the university administration: thorough examination and transparent resolution of issues raised during the integration and opinion-gathering processes; restoration of trust through sufficient communication with members; and the exercise of responsible leadership for the successful promotion of the integration and glocal university initiative.
The Alumni Association stated, "The future of Chungnam University is not just a matter for one group but a significant issue that involves all members and the aspirations of 230,000 alumni. Now is the time to transcend conflict and unite our efforts to leap forward as a leading university in South Korea and the world."
They added, "The Alumni Association will listen more closely to the voices of our juniors and demand responsible communication and action from the university administration to fulfill our role in the sustainable development of our alma mater."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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