The KAIST Graduate Student Association suggested that establishing clear graduation requirements and improving the relationship and time spent with supervising professors could enhance the research environment and education satisfaction. (Image courtesy of KAIST)
DAEJEON, Feb. 29 (Korea Bizwire) – Graduate students at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) are receiving an average monthly stipend of 1.66 million won, a figure significantly below the minimum wage, according to a recent survey.
This has sparked discussions on the need for fair compensation, as these students not only pursue advanced degrees but also play a crucial role in supporting the university’s research endeavors.
The findings from the “2023 Research Environment Survey” conducted by the KAIST Graduate Student Association, revealed this and other pressing issues faced by the students.
The online survey, which was conducted last November, polled both master’s and doctoral candidates at KAIST. The results showed a slight increase in their monthly earnings from research and assistantship duties compared to the previous year.
However, when calculated based on a 52-hour workweek, the average hourly wage of 7,995 won fell short of the legal minimum wage of 9,620 won.
Economic conditions, including stipends, were cited by 3 in 10 respondents as the most urgent area for change. The survey also highlighted the demanding schedules of KAIST graduate students, who spend an average of 10 hours per day on research activities from Monday to Friday, with an annual average of only 7.64 days of leave.
These factors, along with financial constraints, significantly impact the research environment and overall well-being of the students.
Additionally, the survey shed light on issues of power abuse within the academic setting, with 7.81% of respondents reporting being mobilized for professors’ personal errands.
Another concerning finding was the unethical practice of granting authorship to individuals who did not contribute to research, witnessed or experienced by 10.34% of the students. The majority of these cases were attributed to directives from supervising professors.
The KAIST Graduate Student Association suggested that establishing clear graduation requirements and improving the relationship and time spent with supervising professors could enhance the research environment and education satisfaction.
The association emphasized the need for better financial support for graduate students and a reevaluation of authorship ethics in research.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
