Hana Financial Group announced Sunday the launch of “Youth Bridge,” a new social contribution project created through a four-way partnership with the Federation of Korean Industries (FKI), the Korea Youth Counseling & Welfare Institute (KYCI), and the Korean Educational Broadcasting System (EBS).
The partnership agreement was formalized during a signing ceremony held Friday at the FKI Tower in Yeouido, Seoul. Key figures in attendance included Hana Financial Chairman Ham Young-joo, FKI Chairman Ryu Jin, KYCI Chairman Han Jung-won, and EBS President Kim Yu-yeol.
The “Youth Bridge” initiative is specifically designed to support out-of-school youth – young individuals who have left or interrupted their formal education due to various psychological or social difficulties. The program aims to facilitate their reintegration into educational pathways and successful transition into broader society.
Each participating organization will leverage its unique expertise and resources to address the social and psychological isolation experienced by youth who are not currently engaged in the traditional school system.
Hana Financial will spearhead field-based activities, utilizing its extensive financial infrastructure to provide vital resources such as career exploration opportunities, personalized financial literacy education, and preventative measures against illegal gambling. Program participants will also have the opportunity to tour Hana Infinity Seoul, the largest dealing room in South Korea, located at Hana Bank’s headquarters.
The FKI will focus on developing and implementing innovative alternative education models, drawing upon its strong industry connections to bridge the gaps often present in formal education settings. The KYCI, a government-affiliated institution operating under the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, will play a crucial role in identifying and connecting eligible youth to the “Youth Bridge” program through its widespread network of 222 youth support centers nationwide.
EBS will contribute by producing high-quality online educational content, including comprehensive exam preparation materials. Furthermore, EBS will establish a dedicated digital learning platform to ensure accessible and effective learning opportunities for program participants.
“The Youth Bridge project will act as a crucial stepping stone, helping out-of-school youth to rebuild their lives,” said Ham. “Supporting this vulnerable population requires a collaborative and coordinated approach across all sectors of society.”
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