The official education well-being service of Seoul, 'Seoul Learn,' is set to greatly broaden its assistance scope. With relaxed eligibility standards at 80% or less of the average income level, along with the addition of households with multiple children and kids attending local childcare facilities, the estimated number of young individuals who can access Seoul Learn is anticipated to reach around 170,000.
On the 2nd, the Seoul Metropolitan Government stated that it plans to begin accepting applications for new participants in the upgraded Seoul Learn initiative from the 20th onward. Seoul Learn serves as an education assistance platform offering complimentary online courses, individual tutoring, and resources related to careers and studies for disadvantaged young individuals. Previously, around 120,000 people were supported, but now another 50,000 more will be included. The municipality mentioned that this action marks the initial phase of carrying out the ninth administration's commitment to broaden the reach of the Seoul Learn program.
The major adjustment involves easing the income requirements for qualification. The previous limit was 60% or less of the average income, but this has now increased to 80% or lower, enabling more young people to benefit from Seoul Learn. Newly added groups include children who use local child care centers, descendants of individuals honored with national recognition, and those living in homes for single-parent family assistance. Assistance for families with multiple children has also been extended. After the relevant regulation update is announced on the 13th, kids from households with three or more children will qualify for Seoul Learn.
A representative from the Seoul Metropolitan Government said, "We intend to thoroughly examine the project's performance outcomes and financial status in order to evaluate a gradual increase in the number of eligible families, including those with two children."
Young individuals who want to use Seoul Learn can register via the official Seoul Learn website. Based on their membership category, they need to provide necessary paperwork to confirm their income or qualifications, and final approval will be granted following an assessment conducted by the Seoul Metropolitan Government.
At the same time, career discovery initiatives are scheduled for this summer. They consist of 'Career Campus' associated with higher education institutions, the internship program 'Jobseureon,' and the 'Seoul Learn Arts and Sports Class' aimed at students studying art and sports. Additionally, exclusive seminars on English, data science, and interpersonal communication will be offered.
Participants who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance will be eligible for the 'Our Future Seoul Learner' program, which provides personalized guidance for university admissions and study planning, along with assistance in joining Yale University's summer camp in the United States.
Jeong Jin-woo, head of the Seoul Lifelong Learning Department, stated, "We plan to keep increasing chances for education and job discovery, enabling more young people to access learning resources via Seoul Learn and shape their future paths."