On Thursday, 26 January, the President and CEO of Kia Slovakia, Geon Won Shin, signed a joint memorandum with Professor Ing. Ján Čelko, CSc., Rector of the University of Žilina, at the university’s premises in Žilina. By signing the memorandum, both parties agreed to formalise a mutually beneficial partnership in the areas of education, science, cooperation and research activities.
“By signing this memorandum, we are formally launching a cooperation that will bring many benefits to both parties. It will focus primarily on projects, grants and solutions in the fields of education, science and research. I believe that mutual support and cooperation between experts from both sides in areas such as mechanical engineering, Industry 4.0, management, ergonomics and other automotive-related topics will soon deliver its first results,” emphasised Geon Won Shin, President and CEO of Kia Slovakia.
“I am pleased that we are expanding the opportunities for mutual cooperation, which—thanks also to our research staff and students—can deliver practical outcomes for real-world applications and support the development of education in line with current market requirements,” added Ján Čelko, Rector of the University of Žilina.
The ceremonial signing of the memorandum was also attended by Won Jeong Jeong, President of Kia Europe. Kia Europe oversees the brand’s activities across the region and is fully committed to attracting top talent across the continent in all areas of business. The presence of the President of Kia Europe underlined the importance of this topic for the brand.
“Kia recognises that if we want to become the number one mobility provider, we must win the race for talent among like‑minded people—in this case, students who will significantly shape not only the future of the Kia brand, but also the future in which we will live,” he said.
In addition to consultations between experts from both parties, the memorandum also aims to facilitate research, development and other creative activities of students in the preparation of bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral theses. Kia Slovakia will also offer free internships, practical placements, as well as paid scholarships to students of the University of Žilina.
