Sookmyung's "STEM Explorers" Program Inspires Young Women to Pursue Science and Technology
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- Writer 커뮤니케이션팀
- 보도일자 2026-08-04
The Research Institute of Asian Women (RIAW) at Sookmyung Women's University has launched a hands-on major exploration program to help middle and high school girls discover potential careers in science and technology and to cultivate future women leaders in STEM fields.
On July 22, the Research Institute of Asian Women, in partnership with the Korea Federation of Women's Science and Technology Associations (WISET), co-hosted "Sookmyung STEM Explorers – Science Challenge LIVE" on campus. Around 100 middle and high school girls from the greater Seoul metropolitan area took part in programs across seven academic fields: Division of Biological Sciences, Division of Computer Science, Department of Food and Nutrition, Division of Pharmacy, Department of Clothing & Textiles, Division of Electrical Engineering, and Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering.
(Clockwise from top left) Division of Biological Sciences, Division of Computer Science, Division of Pharmacy, Division of Electrical Engineering
The event opened with welcoming remarks from Sung-Eun Kim, Director of the RIAW, followed by an introduction to SMWU's science and engineering majors. Students then visited open labs in each department, touring research facilities and taking part in hands-on experiments and activities alongside faculty and researchers.
Designed around the same lab courses and research activities that Sookmyung undergraduates experience firsthand, the program drew an enthusiastic response from both students and parents. Following the event, participants shared reflections such as, "Getting to try out different experiments in the lab made science and engineering feel much more approachable," and "This was a chance to seriously consider a STEM career path and gain real confidence in myself."
Sung-Eun Kim, Director of the Research Institute of Asian Women, delivers welcoming remarks at "Sookmyung STEM Explorers – Science Challenge LIVE"
"I hope today's experience marks the first step toward a future in science and technology, and a meaningful moment for these students to discover their own potential," said Director Sung-Eun Kim. "We will continue to expand field-based career exploration programs so that more young women can engage directly with diverse STEM fields and shape their futures."