Former Education Minister Yoo Eun-hye Reflects on pandemic Lessons in New Book, “Breathing School”
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A new book offering insights into navigating Korea’s education system during the COVID-19 pandemic is set to be unveiled at a publication ceremony and book concert on Thursday, July 17th, at the Gyeonggi Arts Center.
Former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education Yoo eun-hye’s “Breathing School” examines the core principles of education and proposes a path forward for public education, drawing on her experiences leading the nation’s schools through an unprecedented crisis. The event at the Gyeonggi Arts Center Small Theater, beginning at 1 p.m., is designed to foster dialog between the author and readers.
“Breathing School” is described as a policy essay that re-evaluates the essence of education, prioritizing dignity and connection over traditional metrics of design and competition. According to the Gyeonggi Education Connection Forum, the book details critical decisions made to ensure educational continuity during the height of the coronavirus pandemic.
At the publication ceremony, Yoo Eun-hye is expected to address the challenges faced by the education system and outline a vision for recovery. A subsequent book concert will feature a conversation with Sampro TV anchor Kim won-jang and Chung-Ang University professor Bang Hyun-seok,focusing on the future of Korean education.
A Lifelong dedication to Educational Reform
Yoo Eun-hye’s commitment to education spans decades. Prior to her role as Minister of Education, she served on the Education Committee during her tenures in the 19th and 20th National Assembly, concentrating on improvements to education legislation and systems. As the first female Deputy Prime Minister and the longest-serving Minister of Education in Korean history, she spearheaded significant initiatives, including the implementation of the three kindergarten laws, the expansion of free high school education, and the establishment of the National Education commission.
Notably, Yoo Eun-hye oversaw the rapid transition to online school openings during the pandemic, a move credited with minimizing educational disparities. “the experience of responding with responsibility in the face of a crisis and leaving results through the system is a message that permeates the entire ‘Breathing School’,” a senior official stated.
Charting a New Course for Public education
Currently, Yoo Eun-hye serves as a co-representative of both ‘Gyeonggi Education to Shine again’ and the ‘Gyeonggi Education Connection Forum’. Her ongoing work reflects a continued dedication to identifying and implementing innovative solutions for public education in Korea.
“Breathing School” represents not just a retrospective analysis of a challenging period,but a proactive call for a renewed focus on the fundamental values that underpin a thriving education system.
Why: The book, “Breathing School,” was written to analyze Korea’s education system during the COVID-19 pandemic and propose a path forward. It re-evaluates the core principles of education, prioritizing dignity and connection.
Who: former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education Yoo Eun-hye authored the book. Key figures involved in the launch event include Sampro TV anchor Kim Won-jang and Chung-Ang University professor bang Hyun-seok.
What: “Breathing School” is a policy essay detailing critical decisions made during the pandemic to maintain educational continuity. Yoo Eun-hye also spearheaded initiatives like free high school education and the transition to online learning.
How did it end?: The book is being launched at a publication ceremony and book concert on july 17th at the Gyeonggi Arts Center, aiming to foster dialogue between the author and readers about the future of Korean education. Yoo Eun-hye
