SK is launching a new talent development program to support young people seeking to build their careers in the AI era. On October 12, SK announced the introduction of 'SK AIGEN,' a two-year non-degree program designed for youth who aspire to challenge themselves and innovate, independent of traditional degrees or employment.
The name AIGEN combines 'AI' and 'Generation,' symbolizing the current generation of young people familiar with artificial intelligence.
The program's core focus is to help participants identify and solve problems faced by individuals, society, and businesses using AI. Participants will plan and execute projects individually or in teams, gaining the necessary skills and experiences along the way.
SK AIGEN will operate full-time for two years, applying a hands-on approach that mirrors real-world corporate challenges. This method contrasts with traditional education, which typically involves learning subjects sequentially before applying them to projects.
To enhance the program, SK will collaborate with the AI Research Institute at Seoul National University. This institute integrates AI with various academic fields, including sociology, economics, and public administration, to foster innovative research. It will assist AIGEN participants in expanding their humanistic insights and developing concrete career plans.
In the first year, participants will directly plan and execute projects aimed at solving various issues within individuals, companies, and society. Throughout this process, they will utilize AI, collaborate with peers, and identify and cultivate the skills they need.
To ensure participants can fully engage in their challenges, SK will provide a monthly growth support fund of 3 million won, along with skills training, mentoring for individual and team projects, and workspace for the duration of the two-year program. However, the program does not guarantee employment with specific companies or provide degrees.
This initiative reflects SK's philosophy of 'Talent for the Nation.' Notably, participants will not be subject to any obligations after completing the program.
Choi Jong-hyun, Chairman of SK Group, established the Korea Higher Education Foundation in 1974, providing full scholarships to students with the expectation that they would become contributors to the nation and society without imposing any additional conditions.
Park Sang-kyu, President of MySunny, stated, 'SK has prepared AIGEN to support the challenges of young people who want to develop skills suited for the AI era,' adding that SK plans to select participants annually to establish AIGEN as its flagship talent development program.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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