SDGs永續行動網
SDG13
氣候行動
NUK Hosts "Asia Virtual Academy International Conference": Bridging Sustainable Technology and Social Sciences with New Interdisciplinary Perspectives
【Text: Hsu Yuan-Ju, Office of International Affairs; Edited: Public Affairs Section】【Translated with the assistance of Google Gemini】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】 National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) held the "2025 Asia Virtual Academy (AVA) International Conference" on the 8th. Themed "STEM & the Social Sciences: Bridging Diverse Disciplines for a Sustainable Future," the conference brought together scholars from partner universities in South Korea, India, the Philippines, and Vietnam, alongside industry representatives from ASE Technology Holding. The discussions spanned semiconductors, artificial intelligence, smart cities, and agricultural net-zero emissions, demonstrating NUK’s continuous deepening of interdisciplinary education and international cooperation.NUK President Chen Chi-Jen stated in his opening remarks that the "Asia Virtual Academy (AVA)," driven by the Office of International Affairs (OIA), has connected numerous partner universities in India, Vietnam, South Korea, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Japan since its establishment in 2021. Through lectures and seminars, it has gradually evolved into a vital international exchange platform in the Asia-Pacific region. This year's forum invited speakers from various countries to share research results in technology and social sciences, highlighting the criticality of interdisciplinary knowledge in sustainability issues. He expressed gratitude to ASE Technology Holding and all speakers for their participation, affirming the value of industry-academia collaboration, and thanked the OIA team for their coordination.Dean of International Affairs Lin Hsing-Ju noted that the AVA aims to establish a cross-border learning network for knowledge flow through joint courses, international lectures, and research collaboration. With sustainability and interdisciplinary integration at its core, this forum allowed scholars and industry representatives to provide diverse perspectives from technology, social sciences, and industrial practice. She pointed out that the OIA will continue to deepen connections with partner universities and promote transnational curricula and joint research to expand NUK’s influence in internationalization and sustainable education.Furthermore, Vice President Wu Hsing-Hao served as the moderator for the panel discussions. As a key promoter and founding planner of the Asia Virtual Academy during his tenure as Dean of International Affairs, Vice President Wu helped build the transnational network that laid the foundation for the AVA platform. His moderation facilitated interdisciplinary exchange among speakers on topics ranging from technology to sustainable governance, making the forum discussions more focused and comprehensive.This year's AVA gathered partner institutions including Hanbat National University (Korea), Institute of Aeronautical Engineering (India), Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), and Nong Lam University – Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), as well as representatives from ASE Technology Holding Co., Ltd.During the keynote sessions, NUK Dean of Research and Development Wu Song-Mao used Taiwan's semiconductor industry as an example to analyze how a complete supply chain—from wafer fabrication and packaging/testing to system integration—shapes Taiwan's key position in the global industry. He noted that advanced processes will integrate more deeply with AI and smart systems, making interdisciplinary capability an essential foundation for promoting sustainable technology. Director Tsay Gwo-Tsong and Manager Lin Meng-Hui from the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer at ASE Technology Holding shared corporate practices in sustainable semiconductor manufacturing and ESG initiatives, demonstrating the industry's crucial role in integrating sustainability with technology.Speakers from partner universities also shared interdisciplinary research from various perspectives:Dr. Ki-Seok Kwon (Vice President, Hanbat National University, Korea) discussed technology governance and the University-Industry-Government (U-I-G) collaboration model.Dr. B. Padmaja (Institute of Aeronautical Engineering, India) spoke on the social applications and ethics of Artificial Intelligence.Director Fernando F. Estingor (Polytechnic University of the Philippines) focused on smart cities and public services.Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Thuy (Nong Lam University – Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam) shared insights on agricultural net-zero emissions and climate adaptation technologies.These diverse contributions showcased the forum's transnational and interdisciplinary outlook on sustainability issues.#SDG4 #SDG9 #SDG13 #SDG17 @Office of International Affairs & Activities
NUK Deepens Academic Exchange with Korea: Vice President Wu Hsing-Hao and OIA Dean Lin Hsing-Ju Lead Delegation to Visit 3 Universities and 1 Government Research Institute to Promote Cooperation
【Text and Photos: Hsu Yuan-Ju, Office of International Affairs】【Translated with the assistance of Google Gemini】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】2025-09-16 National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) continues to deepen its international cooperation. From September 8th to 12th, Vice President Wu Hsing-Hao and Dean of the Office of International Affairs (OIA), Lin Hsing-Ju, led a delegation, including two students, to Korea for a mobile course, academic exchange, and cooperation visits. The itinerary covered Hanbat National University, Korea Legislation Research Institute (KLRI), Jeonbuk National University, and Dongduk Women's University.The delegation first visited Hanbat National University (HBNU) and met with representatives from the Daejeon Metropolitan City Government to discuss the feasibility of jointly organizing seminars and promoting bilateral city cooperation. HBNU President Dr. OH Yong-Jun, Dean of Planning Prof. OH Min-Wook, Dean of International Affairs Prof. KWON Ki-Seok, Professor of Electronic Engineering and Director of the Smart Nano Semiconductor Research Institute Prof. KOO Chi-Wan, and Mr. KIM Jin-Soo, Manager of the Semiconductor Industry Support Department of Daejeon City, all attended the meeting, demonstrating the strong sincerity and consensus of both sides to promote collaboration.Subsequently, the delegation traveled to the Korea Legislation Research Institute (KLRI) in Sejong City, where, in conjunction with NUK's Higher Education Sprout Project mobile course, the two sides co-hosted the "Forum on Climate Change and Smart Cities." Vice President Wu delivered a keynote presentation titled "Advancing Public-Private Partnerships for Nature-Based Solutions to Climate Change – Lessons from Taiwan and the EU’s Experience," sharing Taiwan's and the EU's experience in using the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to promote Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) for climate change, which received an enthusiastic response from the attending experts and scholars. OIA Dean Lin Hsing-Ju served as a main discussant, further deepening the dialogue and exchange at the forum. Two NUK graduate students from the Department of Financial and Economic Law also joined the delegation, presenting specialized reports on net-zero emission legal policies and participating in the discussion, allowing students to expand their international horizons and professional knowledge in a cross-border learning environment.In Jeonju City, Jeonbuk National University (JBNU) and NUK further engaged in academic exchange. Both sides conducted detailed negotiations on the renewal of their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and Student Exchange Agreement (MoA), as well as specific exchange items, solidifying the foundation for future cooperation between the two universities. The JBNU Law School also specially invited Vice President Wu to deliver a special lecture titled "Green v Green: Taiwan's Experience for Balancing Renewable Energy Development and Ecological Concerns," and discussed directions for academic collaboration between the two Law Schools with Dean Chung Young Sun and Director of the Northeast Asian Law Institute Song Moon Ho, among other professors.Finally, the delegation visited Dongduk Women's University in Seoul. President Kim Myung-Ae personally received the delegation and discussed the student exchange program and various cooperation items. An agreement was reached to further sign a student exchange agreement between the two universities, with the expectation of establishing a more diverse exchange platform for faculty and students.This visit to Korea not only deepened NUK's existing sister school relationships but also showcased the university's internationalization features through the mobile course and cross-national forums. The actual participation of graduate students also highlighted NUK's achievements in cultivating interdisciplinary students with an international perspective. NUK will continue to promote international academic cooperation, expand students' international mobility, and strive to enhance the visibility of Taiwan's higher education.#SDG4 #SDG11 #SDG13 #SDG17 @Office of International Affairs & Event
The "Japan-Taiwan Disaster Prevention Week" forum takes place at NUK, exchanging experiences on the reconstruction of the 3/11 earthquake in Japan.
【Text: Wu Ya-Hui, Secretary of the Office of the Vice President; Edited by: Public Affairs Section】【Translator：Siou-Yao Han】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】2025-01-09 The National University of Kaohsiung, the Disaster Prevention and Reduction Office of Kaohsiung City Government, and the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association in Kaohsiung Office jointly hosted the "Japan-Taiwan Disaster Prevention Week in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, 2025" forum. The event featured discussions on earthquake disaster experiences, demonstrations of disaster prevention technologies, and the opening of the first overseas photography exhibition of “Shipbuilding Chronicle”. This forum highlighted the achievements of Japan-Taiwan cooperation in disaster prevention and rescue, as well as the National University of Kaohsiung's efforts in promoting university social responsibility, climate governance, and related academic research.The forum was held in the Distance Learning Classroom of the Library and Information Building at the National University of Kaohsiung. Attendees included Chi-Jen Chen, President of NUK; Hsing-Hao Wu, the Administration Vice President of NUK; Oku Masafumi(奧正史), Director of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association in Kaohsiung Office; Chih-Wei Chen, Member of the National Council for Sustainable Development; and Ku-Bin Huang, Executive Secretary of the Disaster Prevention and Reduction Office of Kaohsiung City Government, all of whom expressed their support for the event.In his speech, Oku Masafumi reflected on the mutual support between Japan and Taiwan in the aftermath of disasters in recent years. He emphasized the deep and unique friendship formed through shared compassion. He also highlighted signing the “Memorandum of Cooperation on Strengthening Disaster Prevention and Rescue Exchanges” on November 26, 2015, which facilitated mutual learning and experience-sharing. Today’s forum serves as a concrete manifestation of this commitment.Oku Masafumi emphasized that post-disaster reconstruction involves both physical and psychological recovery, as well as the rebuilding of social structures. He shared his recent visit to Minamisanriku(南三陸町), where he witnessed firsthand how residents overcame challenges to rebuild their communities. This spirit of resilience resonates deeply with the people of Taiwan. Through today’s forum, both parties aim to strengthen cooperation in disaster prevention education, technologies, and community recovery.As the host, Chi-Jen Chen welcomed the guests and noted that both Taiwan and Japan are located in seismically active regions, facing similar challenges in responding to natural disasters. He highlighted that both countries have valuable experiences to share and learn from one another. By organizing the “Japan-Taiwan Disaster Prevention Week”, the event not only strengthens the friendship between Taiwan and Japan but also aims to enhance disaster awareness and response capabilities among students, faculty, and the public. Chen emphasized that disaster prevention education is not only a crucial academic topic but also a fundamental pillar in building a safer society.Chi-Jen Chen stated that NUK is committed to integrating academic research with social responsibility, especially in addressing the challenges of climate change and disaster risks. Through forums and exhibitions, the university not only promotes international exchange but also encourages young students to engage with and contribute to climate governance and disaster prevention efforts.The forum was organized and planned by the Office of the Administration Vice President of National University of Kaohsiung. The Administration Vice President Hsing-Hao Wu stated that this event follows the Japan-Taiwan Disaster Prevention Forum co-hosted with the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association in 2016. The forum consists of three sessions: Earthquake and Reconstruction: Keynote Speech, Coexisting with Nature: Panel Discussion, and Japan’s Disaster Prevention Technologies. These sessions focus on Japan’s post-3/11 disaster reconstruction experiences across industry, government, and academia, covering topics such as rapid disaster assessment, disaster loss mitigation, and innovations to improve post-disaster living conditions. Additionally, the forum highlights how technology and knowledge can be leveraged to address disaster challenges, further strengthening community and individual resilience.The forum also marked the opening day of Shipbuilding Chronicle, the first overseas photography exhibition by renowned Japanese photographer Masaya Noda(野田雅). The exhibition is held in the second-floor lobby of the Library and Information Building at National University of Kaohsiung. It vividly documents the devastation in Ogashi Town(大槌町), Iwate Prefecture(岩手縣), caused by the 3/11 earthquake and the subsequent ten-year reconstruction process. Through powerful imagery, the exhibition conveys the resilience and touching stories of post-disaster recovery. The exhibition runs until the 22nd, and visitors from all walks of life are encouraged to attend.#SDG4 #SDG11 #SDG13 #SDG17 @Office of the Administration Vice President & Events
21st Graduation Ceremony of NUK President Chen Yueh-Tuan: Utilize Cross-Disciplinary Skills to Face Future Challenges Mayor Chen Chi-Mai: Learning to Make Choices and Persist in Life
【Translator: Zhi-Yu Yang】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】2024-06-01 The National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) held its 21st graduation ceremony today(June 1). President Chen Yueh-Tuan encouraged the graduates to face the challenges of the AI wave and digital transformation with a proactive attitude, leveraging the interdisciplinary skills cultivated at the university to create competitive advantages and new opportunities. Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-Mai was invited to deliver a speech, sharing his life story and imparting the lesson, "When you encounter failure, don't rush to get up. Instead, learn to make choices and persist." President Chen Yueh-Tuan stated that NUK has been ranked first among "public general medium-sized universities" for two consecutive years in the survey of the "Top 2,000 Enterprises' Most Favored University Graduates." This accolade is a testament to the university's efforts to integrate academic learning with industry needs and establish strong connections. Chen emphasized that the university's governing goals are "industry linkage and social linkage," in adherence to the central government's "2050 Net Zero Emissions" policy, aligning with Kaohsiung City's "Net Zero City Development Autonomy Regulations" passed in 2023, and continuing to uphold the honor of being a "green university."Chen Yueh-Tuan also encouraged graduates to stay strong and brave when facing the future. She emphasized that while the world constantly changes, " attitude " is the only constant." With the advent of the AI and digital transformation era, graduates should continue enhancing the interdisciplinary skills developed during their studies to create competitiveness in their professional fields. The ceremony especially honored Shi Hong-Qiang, a Tayal student from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, who became the first student from NUK to receive the "Presidential Education Award." Shi demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination, overcoming adversity and achieving well-deserved recognition.Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-Mai, as a guest speaker, encouraged graduates with his own life story, saying, "When you encounter failure, don't rush to get up." Chen admitted that losing the 2018 Kaohsiung mayoral election left him in a daze for several days. His team members reminded him, "They haven't given up, so what reason do I have not to be strong?" This prompted him to calm down, face himself bravely, reflect on the reasons for the setback, and consider the next steps. Rushing to get up would only lead to more obstacles.Chen Chi-Mai also shared that it is essential to cherish family relationships, as they will be your greatest spiritual support. Life involves learning to make choices, and it is impossible always to be a winner. One should remain humble and willing to learn, review failures, and find the core ideas that must be upheld. It would help if you continuously improve your professional abilities to avoid being surpassed or replaced and strive to benefit others' lives. Stepping out of the campus will only sometimes be smooth sailing, but graduates are encouraged to persist in their ideals and overcome complex challenges with immense courage.Li Zong-ming, the president of the NUK Alumni Association, stated that he actively engages with various departments within the university, showing concern for the development of school affairs and the needs of teachers and students. He supports student activities and funding for constructing the artificial turf football field and public art project "Heritage and Ascension." During the 2023 school evaluation, he passionately recommended his beloved alma mater to the visiting committee as an "interactive stakeholder." He also used the story of Hong-Qiang to encourage younger students, reminding them that even if they feel like "children caught in the rain without an umbrella" and face frustrations, they should remember the guidance and care from NUK professors and the donations and support from alumni. This assistance helps them complete their studies, demonstrating the spirit of "NUK people taking care of Kaohsiung University people" and fostering a virtuous cycle.For more information, please refer to our school's graduation ceremony section: https://sa.nuk.edu.tw/p/412-1009-4382.php?Lang=zh-tw #SDG1 #SDG4 #SDG13 #SDG17 @Student Affairs Division &Activity
"UI GreenMetric World University Rankings": NUK Advances to 285th Place, Achieving Success in Promoting Environmental Sustainability.
【Translator : Siou-Yao Han】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs) series】2024-01-03 The National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) has once again made it to the world rankings! In the latest "UI GreenMetric World University Rankings," NUK's global ranking has risen from 319th to 285th place, entering the top quarter. This reflects the university's commitment to incorporating the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into its core administrative governance, successfully practicing and promoting the concept of a green university.President Yueh-Tuan Chen of the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) stated that linking with society and industries, and responding to national policies, has always been the school's goal. In 2022, NUK took the lead in responding to the government's "Net Zero 2050" policy, declaring its commitment to the direction of becoming a "green university." In addition, the university has been actively installing public art to shape the cultural atmosphere on campus and promote environmental education. These efforts have contributed to the positive results in the "UI GreenMetric World University Rankings," and President Chen attributes this success to the collective efforts of all faculty, staff, and students. NUK will continue its endeavors in promoting environmental sustainability, education, and research.The "UI GreenMetric World University Rankings" is constructed based on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) indicators, with evaluation categories encompassing "Setting and Infrastructure," "Energy and Climate Change," "Waste," "Water," "Transportation," and "Education and Research." The 2023 edition of this ranking was organized by Universitas Indonesia and was released last month on December 5th. A total of 1,183 universities from 84 countries participated in the competition, including 31 universities from Taiwan.The Office of General Affairs at the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) took the lead in participating in this ranking. Mr. Shih-Heng Tung, the Dean of General Affairs, pointed out that NUK has been actively applying for the ranking since 2022, and the university's performance has improved consistently. Moving from 319th place in 2022 to 285th place in 2023, significant improvements were observed in all six evaluation categories. This indicates the continuous refinement of the university's environmental strategies and practices.For example, in the "Setting and Infrastructure" category, the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) in Taiwan is ranked 8th among participating schools. This recognition is attributed to the university's commitment to environmental sustainability from its inception, marked by the signing of the "Talloires Declaration (June 5, 2004)," making it the first green university in Taiwan. The university's campus, formerly agricultural fields and fishponds acquired through land requisition by the Kaohsiung City Government, spans 82.5 hectares. After a series of environmental restoration efforts, the campus now boasts a forest and vegetation coverage of 51.64%.Furthermore, within the NUK campus, there are ecological ponds, East Lake, ecological water channels, and natural watercourse. In addition, there are 10 pieces of public art scattered throughout the campus, including installations like "Le Zai Yiqi (Have fun together)." The university has also integrated the surrounding 300 hectares into a university community, promoting environmental education and management under the concept of the "lung of the community." This approach not only attracts people for recreation but also facilitates outdoor education.In the "Transportation" category, the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) stands out, ranking 10th among participating schools in Taiwan. This recognition is attributed to several measures, such as controlling motorcycle access to the campus. All motorcycles of faculty, staff, and students, except for delivery and official vehicles, are required to be parked in designated areas. Additionally, NUK has collaborated with the Kaohsiung CityGovernment and YouBike, implementing 10 bike-sharing stations across the campus. This initiative facilitates easy movement for faculty, staff, students, and the public. Moreover, the university manages vehicle numbers through a campus entrance fee for cars, and it has planned five locations for "shared taxi" pick-up points, encouraging the use of public transportation and reducing reliance on private vehicles.#SDG4 #SDG6 #SDG7 #SDG9 #SDG11 #SDG12 #SDG13 @Department of General Affairs &Research
NUK's Science and Technology Center for Disaster Prevention and Reduction and the Kaohsiung City Government's Water Resources Bureau jointly organized the "Self-reliant Disaster Preparedness Community Achievement Exchange".
【Translator: Zhi-Yu Yang】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】2023-10-13 On the 13th of October, the Kaohsiung City Government's Water Resources Bureau, in collaboration with NUK's Science and Technology Center for Disaster Prevention and Reduction and the Taiwan Resilient Cities Development Association, jointly organized the "112th Annual Kaohsiung City Flood Disaster Self-Reliance Community Achievement Exchange Meeting." During this event, they recognized outstanding communities, cooperative businesses, and organizations for their contributions to flood disaster self-reliance.The event also featured a certification ceremony for disaster prevention personnel, emphasizing the importance of training individuals in disaster response and management. In addition, students from NUK participated in training programs. Upon completing their training, these students will be deployed to multiple communities, including Yong'an and Renwu, where they will actively engage in practical activities. Their role will involve raising awareness about disaster preparedness and helping build the community's capacity for self-rescue and mutual assistance.This initiative highlights the collaborative efforts between government agencies, educational institutions, and local communities to enhance disaster preparedness and response and empower residents to take an active role in self-help and mutual assistance during emergencies.The achievement exchange meeting took place at the National University of Kaohsiung. Director of the Water Resources Bureau, Kaohsiung City Government, Tsai Chang-Jhan, emphasized " communities " 's critical role in the disaster prevention system. Communities are the fundamental and most important part of this system. In addition to smaller-scale wind disasters, the increased frequency and scale of flooding due to global climate change have posed more significant challenges. Taiwan is no exception, and coping with disasters is becoming more complex.The dedication of communities is a significant source of encouragement for the public sector. Learning how to coexist with disasters is a trend in future disaster prevention systems. Through this achievement exchange meeting and the community gathering, the event aimed to express gratitude for the communities' years of dedication to safeguarding homes together, even in the face of adversity.Wu Min-hao, the Director of the Science and Technology Center for Disaster Prevention and Reduction at NUK, highlighted that the university is actively involved in implementing the Ministry of Education's "Higher Education SPROUT Project USR-Hub Program" and aligning it with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to promote concepts related to "resilient cities" and "resilient disaster prevention." As part of these efforts, the university has introduced a course titled "Disaster Prevention Skills and Practices" to encourage students to study and engage in community-based practical work. The goal is to guide students in becoming active participants in self-reliant disaster prevention communities, thus fulfilling the university's social responsibility. NUK has trained nearly 50 students who are set to complete their training and gradually join various communities starting in October. These communities include Xin Gang Li in Yong'an District, Zhonghua Community in Renwu District, Baoshe Community in Daliao District, Linzai Bian Community in Chulai District, Dashu Xinjizhuang Community and Jiutang Community in Dashu District, Xiayantian Community and Qingfeng Community in Nanzih District, Taiye Community in Hunei District, and Dade Community in Qishan District. NUK's Science and Technology Center for Disaster Prevention and Reduction has been assisting the Kaohsiung City Government in promoting self-reliant disaster prevention communities for an extended period, and they have guided more than 40 such communities.The Ministry of Economic Affairs Water Resources Agency initiated these self-reliant disaster prevention communities in 2010. They encompass areas in Taiwan prone to flooding. The idea is to engage residents in disaster prevention activities, raising their awareness of the crisis potential and encouraging them to participate in disaster prevention actions actively. The aim is to build the capacity for self-rescue and mutual aid among the community members. This approach strengthens community resilience and their ability to respond effectively to disasters.#SDG11 #SDG13
NUK's Science and Technology Center for Disaster Prevention and Reduction and the Kaohsiung City Government's Water Resources Bureau jointly organized the "Self-reliant Disaster Preparedness Community Achievement Exchange".
【Translator: Zhi-Yu Yang】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】2023-10-13 On the 13th of October, the Kaohsiung City Government's Water Resources Bureau, in collaboration with NUK's Science and Technology Center for Disaster Prevention and Reduction and the Taiwan Resilient Cities Development Association, jointly organized the "112th Annual Kaohsiung City Flood Disaster Self-Reliance Community Achievement Exchange Meeting." During this event, they recognized outstanding communities, cooperative businesses, and organizations for their contributions to flood disaster self-reliance.The event also featured a certification ceremony for disaster prevention personnel, emphasizing the importance of training individuals in disaster response and management. In addition, students from NUK participated in training programs. Upon completing their training, these students will be deployed to multiple communities, including Yong'an and Renwu, where they will actively engage in practical activities. Their role will involve raising awareness about disaster preparedness and helping build the community's capacity for self-rescue and mutual assistance.This initiative highlights the collaborative efforts between government agencies, educational institutions, and local communities to enhance disaster preparedness and response and empower residents to take an active role in self-help and mutual assistance during emergencies.The achievement exchange meeting took place at the National University of Kaohsiung. Director of the Water Resources Bureau, Kaohsiung City Government, Tsai Chang-Jhan, emphasized " communities " 's critical role in the disaster prevention system. Communities are the fundamental and most important part of this system. In addition to smaller-scale wind disasters, the increased frequency and scale of flooding due to global climate change have posed more significant challenges. Taiwan is no exception, and coping with disasters is becoming more complex.The dedication of communities is a significant source of encouragement for the public sector. Learning how to coexist with disasters is a trend in future disaster prevention systems. Through this achievement exchange meeting and the community gathering, the event aimed to express gratitude for the communities' years of dedication to safeguarding homes together, even in the face of adversity.Wu Min-hao, the Director of the Science and Technology Center for Disaster Prevention and Reduction at NUK, highlighted that the university is actively involved in implementing the Ministry of Education's "Higher Education SPROUT Project USR-Hub Program" and aligning it with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to promote concepts related to "resilient cities" and "resilient disaster prevention." As part of these efforts, the university has introduced a course titled "Disaster Prevention Skills and Practices" to encourage students to study and engage in community-based practical work. The goal is to guide students in becoming active participants in self-reliant disaster prevention communities, thus fulfilling the university's social responsibility. NUK has trained nearly 50 students who are set to complete their training and gradually join various communities starting in October. These communities include Xin Gang Li in Yong'an District, Zhonghua Community in Renwu District, Baoshe Community in Daliao District, Linzai Bian Community in Chulai District, Dashu Xinjizhuang Community and Jiutang Community in Dashu District, Xiayantian Community and Qingfeng Community in Nanzih District, Taiye Community in Hunei District, and Dade Community in Qishan District. NUK's Science and Technology Center for Disaster Prevention and Reduction has been assisting the Kaohsiung City Government in promoting self-reliant disaster prevention communities for an extended period, and they have guided more than 40 such communities.The Ministry of Economic Affairs Water Resources Agency initiated these self-reliant disaster prevention communities in 2010. They encompass areas in Taiwan prone to flooding. The idea is to engage residents in disaster prevention activities, raising their awareness of the crisis potential and encouraging them to participate in disaster prevention actions actively. The aim is to build the capacity for self-rescue and mutual aid among the community members. This approach strengthens community resilience and their ability to respond effectively to disasters.#SDG11 #SDG13
NUK integrates environmental education into self-directed learning through a game, "NUK Heroes: The Journey of Environmental Protection."
【Translator：Siou-Yao Han】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】2023-10-11 The era of self-directed learning has arrived! The National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) has teamed up with the gamified online learning platform PaGamO to announce the launch of an engaging game-based course titled "NUK Heroes: The Journey of Environmental Protection." This course creatively integrates environmental education into digital self-directed learning, inspiring students to actively participate in environment protection.The game will kick off on October 1st and run continuously until December 15th, offering a two-and-a-half-month super-powered adventure. The main focus of the course revolves around self-directed learning, allowing students at NUK to immerse themselves in a fun and meaningful learning experience.The NUK's "Higher Education Sprout Project" team collaborated with PaGamO to develop an engaging game-based course. The game offers diverse content, including five main themes, totaling 103 questions and 42 levels. Players will embark on an exciting adventure of environmental issues, accompanying characters Lai Pihou and Xiaoming as they enter virtual reality.In the game, players are required to collect stones to summon superheroes to change the global environment. Each level is designed to be challenging, requiring players to use their intelligence to solve various environmental issues such as climate change, energy crises, and ecological balance.Furthermore, the game emphasizes the importance of self-directed learning. Players will engage in independent thinking to find solutions to problems while gaining a deeper understanding of environmental protection and sustainable development. This serves to encourage students to comprehend how their actions can impact the future of the planet.The Center for Teaching and Learning Development, in collaboration with the gamified online learning platform PaGamO, integrates this into "The Goal of University Education" courses. The primary focus is on merging education with gamified learning, providing an engaging and varied learning experience. Through the game, students will understand environmental issues, thereby igniting their interest and capacity for solving these problems.NUK students participating in this game will have the chance to win awesome prizes, motivating them to actively engage in this adventure to save the Earth's environment.Let's join "NUK Heroes: The Journey of Environmental Protection" together and become the superheroes who change the world! This amazing course combines self-directed learning with environmental education, providing an engaging and fun learning experience. Join Professor Ke and face the challenges of the global environment together!#SDG4 #SDG7 #SDG13 #SDG15
2023 Asia Virtual Academy Conference Unites 8 Universities from 6 Countries to Address “Climate Resilience and Sustainable Societies”
【Translator：Siou-Yao Han】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】On June 6, 2023, the National University of Kaohsiung(NUK) held the '2023 Asia Virtual Academy Conference', focusing on “Climate Resilience and Sustainable Societies.” The event was conducted in-person and online simultaneously, expanding its reach to more audiences. During the conference, memorandums of understanding (MOUs) were signed with the Institute of Aeronautical Engineering from India and the University of the Ryukyus from Japan, fostering academic exchanges and establishing partnerships between the universities.Yueh-Tuan Chen, President of the NUK, along with Haranadh Prasad, Dean of the College of Engineering at the Institute of Aeronautical Engineering in India, and Ikue Kina, Vice President of the University of the Ryukyus in Japan, signed an MOU. This agreement aims to facilitate academic and cultural exchanges, share educational resources, and establish cross-border learning opportunities for students.As the host, Yueh-Tuan Chen welcomed the visiting scholars from partner institutions, noting that while the Covid-19 pandemic had once confined international borders, the NUK broke through the restrictions and launched the “Asia Virtual Academy.” These invitations to partner universities across various countries facilitated the sharing of knowledge, cultures, and achievements. For instance, the NUK has linked industry and society, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to fulfill its University Social Responsibility (USR) commitments.The NUK's Office of International Affairs organized this conference, with the host and Director of International Affairs, Wu Xinghao, highlighting the attraction of numerous partners through the establishment of the Asia Virtual Academy in 2021. The Asia Virtual Academy fulfill goals like "international exchange," "expanding students' global perspectives," and "respecting and understanding diverse cultures." Amid easing pandemic conditions, this year's conference integrates in-person and online elements. Partner universities' faculty and students can engage via platforms such as YouTube and Facebook, embodying borderless education and instant communication. Impressively, nearly 200 individuals attended the online session simultaneously.One of the speakers, Professor Qi-ren Chen from the Department of Architecture of the NUK, shared the actions and measures of the low-carbon community and culturally sustainable development jointly created by NUK and Kaohsiung City; the other speakers included Ikue Kina, the vice president of the University of the Ryukyus, Prof. Mary Joy B. Sande from Bicol University in the Philippines, Prof. Manisha Jagtap from Rajarambapu Institute of Technology in India, Prof. Helma Malini from Universitas Tanjungpura in Indonesia, Prof. Hoang Ha Anh from Nong Lam University in Vietnam conducted discussions on low-carbon communities, green buildings, green finance, and sustainable agriculture.#SDG4 #SDG11 #SDG13 #SDG17
