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| Scientists carry out research at the Vietnam-Korea Institute of Science and Technology (VKIST), established by KOICA to support the development of science and technology in the Southeast Asian country. Courtesy of KOICA |
By Kang Seung-woo
The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) implemented 63.5 billion won ($51 million) in science and technology innovation projects in 2021 to contribute to innovation in developing countries, according to the state-run aid agency, Monday.
April 21 marked Science Day in Korea, signifying support for the development of science and technology, while the United Nations has designated 2022 as the Year of Basic Sciences for Sustainable Development.
In celebration of Science Day, KOICA shed light on various science- and technology-related projects it has carried out in developing countries to solve economic and social problems, the development cooperation agency announced Thursday.
KOICA's projects are in line with the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their targets, which emphasize innovation in science and technology including strengthening research capabilities and supporting policies that encourage technological development and startups.
KOICA is striving for the advancement of science and technology in developing countries by supporting related policy-making, offering consulting services, training research personnel and supporting tech-based startups and employment, through projects that totaled 63.5 billion won in 2021.
A representative project is the Vietnam-Korea Institute of Science and Technology (VKIST), which was built in Hanoi to enhance research achievements in the science and technology fields and is contributing to the advancement of local research capabilities. This project began in 2014 following the request of the Vietnamese government to benchmark the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), a successful case of Korea's development experience.
Having grown into Vietnam's sole state-of-the-art research facility and a research institute for innovative science and technology, VKIST gained an evaluation as an excellent organization in 2021, while VKIST's chief received a commendation from Vietnam's Ministry of Science and Technology.
As of 2021, the institute holds some 179 types of advanced research equipment. Thirty-six researchers are working in the fields of green technology, digital transformation and the Fourth Industrial Revolution to prepare for the post-pandemic era. Their work includes electric vehicle motor development, bird flu diagnostic sensor development, face recognition technology and a patented study related to the production of skin whitening compositions.
In Mongolia, KOICA has implemented a $6 million project since 2019 to support the dreams of talented students studying science at the university level by establishing medium- to long-term development and operation plans for the Mongolian University of Science and Technology and improving the curriculum of 20 related departments. In order to enhance research results and quality of education, KOICA has also provided training for professors and upgrades for research labs.
In Ghana, KOICA has strived to spark teenage students' interest in math and science by holding math and science vacation camps and after-school programs for girls. Campaigns were also held to raise community awareness in order to facilitate girls' attendance at school and the pursuit of studies. Systematically, KOICA aims to support the training of female talent in the field of science and engineering in Ghana by enhancing the gender sensitivity of teachers and education officials.
