Samsung Electronics Co.’s talent development and social contribution program, Samsung Software Academy for Youth (SSAFY), made a significant societal impact by procuring employment for 5,000 individuals as of the end of 2023.

The achievement is attributable to the commitment from Samsung Electronics chief Jay Y. Lee to nurture software experts for future growth.

On Tuesday, Samsung Electronics held a graduation ceremony for the 9th group of SSAFY participants in Gangnam District, southern Seoul. SSAFY is a corporate social responsibility program launched by Samsung Electronics in 2018 to boost the economy and create jobs.

The academy aims to expand the local information (IT) ecosystem and enhance young people’s employment competitiveness.

SSAFY ? in its fifth year ? has graduated a total of 5,831 individuals. Among them, 4,946 have successfully found jobs, translating into an employment rate of 85 percent.

When counting the 9th group participants who gained early employment, the total number of employed individuals tops 5,000.

Graduates are entering prominent companies such as Samsung Electronics, Naver Corp., and Coupang Inc. in sectors including IT, communication, and logistics. They are also joining promising startups like 42Maru and Neubility.

Notably, over 150 companies operate preferential selection processes, including exemption from document screening and coding tests, as well as additional points in document screening for SSAFY graduates.

Major domestic banks, including Shinhan, KB Kookmin, Hana, Woori, and NH Nonghyup, have also signed business agreements with SSAFY and actively participate in fostering fintech SW talents.

Behind Samsung Electronics’ efforts in nurturing software talents is Lee’s strong determination.

After taking office as chairman in October 2022, Lee visited the SSAFY campuses to encourage the students. In a visit to the Gwangju campus in 2019, Lee said that “nurturing talents is essential for expanding the IT ecosystem” and that “we must sow the seeds for the future now, despite the challenges.”

By Choi Seung-jin and Lee Eun-joo

[ⓒ Pulse by Maeil Business News Korea & mk.co.kr, All rights reserved]