In front of the main office of Gwangju National University of Education there is a memorial monument that reads:'Renew day by day'. The meaning of this message is to change something. This change, however, entails two directions: change for personal growth and development and change in response to an ever-changing environment. The former is a parable for a person rowing a boat in a lake with gentle waves. Since the person rowing the boat can easily paddle, he can decide the directions and limits of the change. In contrast, the latter can be viewed as a parable for a person rowing a boat up a stream since doing so requires persistent effort. The top of the stream cannot be reached with one strong paddle. Instead, the person rowing the boat can only reach his goal through persistent paddling.

 The 21st century is the time for profound renewal and education will be the driving force behind such change, which will inevitably lead to the improvement of society and its nation. At GNUE, all staff members are playing a leading role in this renewal process by working to produce, 'Noble and Elite Teachers' capable of leading change in the 21st century. In fact, by its 67th anniversary, GNUE had received recognition from the government and various non-governmental evaluation agencies as the leading institution for elementary teacher education in Korea.

 To be satisfied with its place as the leader in elementary teacher education in Korea is not enough, however. To continue to lead change in the 21st century, and reach its goal of becoming known as the most prestigious center for, 'excellent education and great educators' in the world, the staff and students of GNUE must keep in mind the meaning of the message behind, 'Renew day by day'.