(C) POSCO

Integrating Science, Technology, and Engineering into Global Philanthropy Over 1,500 Volunteers Empowered Over 19 Years of Service

The 18th term of POSCO’s university student volunteer group, ‘Beyond,’ has successfully concluded its journey, marking a significant milestone in integrating technology with social contribution. According to POSCO on February 23, the 18th Beyond group focused on activities that combined science, technology, and engineering (STEM) elements, reflecting POSCO’s strategic vision of "strengthening super-gap technological competitiveness."

Since its inauguration in June last year, the group has engaged in an intensive eight-month program. The curriculum included education on utilizing Generative AI, ‘Maker’ training (creating devices using various tools), and the development of engineering practice kits. Their efforts were not limited to theory; they conducted educational volunteering for children in the Pohang and Gwangyang regions and spearheaded projects to solve local social issues.

Following their domestic activities, the Beyond members were dispatched to Cilegon, Indonesia, for an eight-day mission in January. There, they shared the joy of science with local youth using engineering kits such as electric vehicles, solar-powered mood lights, and walking toys. These activities were complemented by cultural exchange programs, fostering a deeper bond between the volunteers and the Indonesian community.

One of the participants, Park Su-bin (a student in the Department of Electrical Engineering at Dong-A University), shared her experience: “By designing engineering kits and conducting hands-on sessions with the children, I truly felt how technology can transform people’s lives. It was incredibly rewarding to see that volunteering can go beyond simple assistance to become an education that prepares for the future. The bright smiles of the local youth were the greatest reward.”

Established in 2007, ‘Beyond’ is POSCO’s flagship social contribution program. Its name signifies the company’s commitment to going "beyond" simple charity to create sustainable value. Over the past 19 years, the program has produced approximately 1,500 volunteers who have led efforts in environmental improvement and social problem-solving for vulnerable groups both at home and abroad, including construction volunteering and environmental campaigns.

POSCO plans to begin recruiting for the next term this April. Detailed information will be available on the official Beyond website (www.poscobeyond.or.kr) or via their official Instagram account (@posco_beyond).

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