Gen.G and the University of Kentucky have agreed to a partnership that will aid the school in building an esports program that goes beyond typical gaming competition.
The university intends to use the program to increase student recruitment, boost classroom and internship opportunities, provide research opportunities and also help with development for alumni. The partnership will be folded into the university's larger Smart Campus Initiative that emphasizes technology.
"We view technology, not as an end, but as a tool to help us maximize the success of our students -- in their educations and as they pursue all that's possible at the University of Kentucky," university provost David Blackwell said in a statement when the partnership was announced Monday. "We want to provide them tools and learning opportunities that will help them succeed at UK, but also as they pursue jobs and careers that will help them succeed throughout life."
As such, the program will focus on academic, community and professional development, and also will give the students global connections.
"As rapidly as collegiate esports is already growing, the full power of games to impact students' lives stems from international community more than from intercollegiate rivalry," Chris Park, CEO of Gen.G, said in a statement. "We believe the best universities should invest in this vision across the world. The University of Kentucky, with a nationally elite range of academic offerings and an internationally recognized athletic program, is particularly well-equipped to help lead the way."
In coming months, Kentucky plans to discuss a gaming-focused certificate program, hold open platforms for high schoolers in Kentucky and conduct events designed to help students enter careers in gaming.
-- Field Level Media