Sogang Signs Agreement with Synopsis Korea to Foster Semiconductor Design Experts

▲ (From left to right) President Sim Jong-hyeok, President So Kyung-shin

On Tuesday, November 28, Sogang University, represented by President Sim Jong-hyeok, and Synopsys Korea Inc., led by President So Gyung-shin, came together to sign a significant business agreement aimed at nurturing professionals in semiconductor design and fostering industry-academia collaboration.

Synopsys, headquartered in Silicon Valley, USA, is the world’s largest semiconductor design automation (EDA) company, providing crucial support to Korean semiconductor manufacturers like Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix. Through its Synopsys Academic & Research Alliances (SARA) program, Synopsys is dedicated to strengthening its ties with industry and academia. Focusing on research, innovation, and talent development, the SARA program endeavors to solidify Synopsys’ position as a premier technology partner and a catalyst for the advancement of future workplaces.

Under this agreement, the two institutions will join forces to △provide professional designer training for undergraduate and graduate students, △offer short-term courses for non-majors, and △enhance semiconductor education at the upcoming Sogang Design Center by utilizing Synopsys programs.

Meanwhile, Sogang University has intensified its efforts to cultivate the next generation of semiconductor professionals with the establishment of a new major in System Semiconductor Engineering, a contract department for SK Hynix established in 2022. In March of this year, the university took a significant step forward by signing a business agreement with the Korea Fabless Industry Association (KFIA) to provide startup and mentoring support, with a specific focus on semiconductor education. Moreover, in June, Sogang was selected for the $1.8 billion “Semiconductor Major Track Project,” organized by the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy, offering a comprehensive curriculum tailored to meet the evolving needs of industrial companies in the semiconductor sector.

President Sim Jong-hyeok expressed, “We anticipate that this collaboration with Synopsys, renowned for its world-leading EDA technology, will provide unparalleled educational opportunities for students aspiring to become future semiconductor experts. It will also serve as a cornerstone for the development of semiconductor technology and practical skills essential to the field.”

President So Gyung-shin of Synopsys said, “Semiconductors play a crucial role in driving innovation across all industries. This strategic collaboration between Sogang University and Synopsys aligns with their commitment to establishing programs for next-generation workplace development and nurturing talent on a global scale. Through this collaboration with Sogang, known for its commitment to educational excellence, we will spare no efforts in cultivating a competitive workforce capable of contributing to the 'Fourth Industrial Revolution.