Busan Launches Project to Nurture Future Diplomats
By Do Je-hae
Staff Reporter
Teenagers who harbor ambitions of diplomatic careers are being offered the chance of a sneak preview of what may lie in store for them in the future by joining Busan's Ban Ki-moon Project, a training program named after the incumbent U.N. secretary-general.
Busan's educational authority announced Friday that in conjunction with diplomatic missions in 10 countries, it will select 50 high schools students in the city and give them first-hand experience in multilateral diplomacy.
It is the first time that a local administration has incorporated a joint training initiative with the foreign ministry with the aim of nurturing the next generation of officials to serve as Korea's face to the world.
Candidates will be subject to an interview at the city's education office. A good command of English and enthusiasm for international relations are the chief demands of prospective participants
``The program is designed ultimately to advance the nation's diplomatic capacity. Students and parents have displayed an immense interest in this new program,'' said a city official.
When selected, the participants will travel to diplomatic missions in English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, England, Australia, Kenya and the Philippines.
Each will host five students who will accompany or assist the head of mission and senior officials in multilateral diplomatic situations. Official activities will start on July 10.
They will also have the chance to take part in U.N. mock conferences and network with local students with similar visions of a career in diplomatic service. Outstanding performers will be given priority in other international exchange projects underway in the city.
For more information, visit the foreign ministry's Web site at www.mofat.go.kr or the Busan Education Office at www.pen.go.kr.