Pyeongchang 2018 have signed an MoU with the Ministry of Education ©Pyeongchang 2018

Pyeongchang 2018 have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the South Korean Ministry of Education in order to contribute to an "Olympic legacy for educational development".

A lack of firm legacy commitments was highlighted as a major concern by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) during their Coordination Commission inspection visit to the South Korean resort last week.

An MoU was signed between Pyeongchang 2018 President Lee Hee-beom and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education Lee Joon-sik at the Government Complex in Seoul.

It will "promote Pyeongchang 2018 while encouraging young students to engage with the Olympic and Paralympic Games and values".

Schools will use visual aids which contain Olympic winter sports in order to encourage students and teachers to participate in the Games, a statement explained.

They will also develop educational activities connected to Pyeongchang 2018.

"Our goal is to create an environment where students can experience the Winter Olympic Games directly and indirectly," said Lee.

"We are confident to open ‘New Horizons’ for young students and leave a legacy by working closely with the Ministry of Education."

Pyeongchang 2018 President Lee Hee-beom, right, alongside deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Lee Joonsik ©Pyeongchang 2018
Pyeongchang 2018 President Lee Hee-beom, right, alongside deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Lee Joonsik ©Pyeongchang 2018

IOC Coordination Commission chair Gunilla Lindberg warned last week that the "absence of clear legacy plans also reflects badly on the image of these Games for which legacy was already committed at bid time but never confirmed".

Organisers will support winter sport institutes and provide materials for middle school students who take part in a career development programme.

They will also offer career experience in sports and the Olympics, provide lectures from winter sports athletes, operate a Sports Hall at the Korea Education Fair for Happiness and participate in various other educational programmes for students.

It will supplement other educational schemes such as the displays at the Pyeongchang House exhibition close to the ice sport venues in Gangneung.

"Through our new partnership, we will work towards a common goal to further develop educational programs and stage a successful Games," said Minister Lee.

"The Ministry of Education will fully support Pyeongchang 2018 to promote the Olympic Movement through educational and cultural activities."