On April 11, UNIST has announced its ambitious initiative to transition into an AI Campus. This transformation will leverage artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to innovate education, research, and administrative processes. Collaborating Professor Sedol Lee, being instrumental in highlighting the changes brought about by the utilization of AI technologies across these sectors, has taken the lead on this initiative.
During a press conference held at UNIST, Professor Lee stated, “The key in the AI era is not merely to be skilled at using AI, but rather to possess the ability to collaborate effectively with it.” He believes that through collaboration, humans can leverage AI to enhance creativity and problem-solving capabilities.
Professor Lee stated at the press conference, “We live in an era where we need people who can create board games like Go, rather than just being good at playing Go.”
Reflecting on his match against AlphaGo, Professor Lee noted that AI has the capability to break free from conventional thinking and unleash creativity. He believes that through collaboration with AI, we can overcome biases and solve diverse challenges.
Professor Lee is committed to teaching innovative problem-solving techniques to students. Since the first semester of this year, he has been leading a course on ‘Board Game Development for Scientists,’ encouraging students to expand their creativity and broaden their perspectives.
UNIST President Chong Rae Park acknowledged Professor Lee’s significant contribution to discussions on human-AI collaboration, stating, “Professor Lee’s insights into the capabilities that lie beyond AI alone will be crucial in nurturing creative talent.”
President Park is explaining the background of Professor Lee’s appointment while introducing the plans for AI-based innovations in research, education, and administration.
In tandem with these educational efforts, President Park outlined plans for widespread integration of AI technologies across the UNIST campus. With a focus on educational innovation and talent development converged with AI, UNIST aims to enhance its research infrastructure and modernize administrative processes through AI-driven approaches.
This initiative represents a pioneering effort among universities in South Korea to create an integrated AI-focused educational and research environment. It aims to facilitate the digital transformation of local industries in Ulsan through practical AI training that is tailored to the specific needs of businesses. A pilot program for an AI platform will commence in the first half of the year, providing faculty, staff, and students with training in AI utilization alongside education strategies for local industries.
Furthermore, UNIST plans to strengthen its AI supercomputing infrastructure and develop proprietary AI systems, including the Small Language Model (sLM) and the Autonomous Lab, to expand its research capabilities.
President Park remarked, “It is crucial to cultivate individuals who are insightful users of AI. Ultimately, we aspire to produce experts who can identify the gaps and opportunities AI presents.” To support this objective, the One Student per One Generative AI System initiative will be introduced, enabling students to engage directly with AI and enhance their skills.
Professor Lee is conducting a lecture on “Board Game Development for Scientists.”
To foster individuals equipped with creativity, integrative connectivity, and global leadership, UNIST is establishing the GRIT Growth Platform. Through this platform, Professor Sedol Lee’s spirit of perseverance and insight is expected to significantly contribute to the development of pioneering talents.
