SDGs永續行動網
SDG4
優質教育
National University of Kaohsiung and Hanbat National University Sign MoU: President Chi-Jen Chen Invited to Share NUK's Achievements
【Text and Photos: Yuan-Ru Hsu, Office of International Affairs; Edited by: Public Affairs Section】【Translator： Ya-Hsin Wan】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】2024-12-24 The National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) has once again achieved remarkable progress in driving international connections and expanding its influence. President Chi-Jen Chen and Vice President of Administration Hsing-Hao Wu were invited to South Korea to participate in an international symposium, where they shared insights onCultural Heritage Preservation,University Social Responsibility (USR), and theAsia Virtual Academy (AVA).During the visit,NUK also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hanbat National University, marking significant achievements from this international engagement.President Chi-Jen Chen of the National University of Kaohsiung, along with his delegation, visited South Korea in mid-December to participate in the 2nd International Symposium on Disruptive Innovation in Higher Education, hosted by Hanbat National University and the Korea National University Development Institute. The symposium united university presidents, experts, and scholars from multiple countries, including the host nation, the United States, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Kyrgyzstan, fostering vibrant international academic exchanges.President Chi-Jen Chen of the National University of Kaohsiung and President Oh Yong-Jun of Hanbat National University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on behalf of their respective institutions. The two universities will collaborate in areas such as semiconductor materials science, talent development, and cultural exchange.Chi-Jen Chen expressed that the two universities, being of similar scale and both located at key hubs of high-tech corridors, are well-positioned to achieve remarkable outcomes through their collaboration. Oh Yong-Jun, who visited the National University of Kaohsiung this September (2024) to attend a symposium organized by the Department of Asia-Pacific Industrial and Business Management, was deeply impressed by NUK's operations and the vibrant harbor city of Kaohsiung.At the symposium, Chi-Jen Chen delivered a keynote speech titled "NUK’s Cultural Heritage and Green Campus Initiatives," in which he elaborated on the National University of Kaohsiung's efforts in cultural heritage preservation, comprehensive University Social Responsibility (USR) projects and green university initiatives. His presentation stressed the university's achievements in cross-disciplinary innovation, industrial collaboration, local engagement, and international integration, reflecting NUK's exemplary governance practices.Hsing-Hao Wu shared the achievements of the National University of Kaohsiung in advancing the Asia Virtual Academy (AVA). Established in 2021 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, this online platform overcame the barriers to international exchange, enabling continuous knowledge and cultural interaction with higher education partners from 9 universities across 6 countries.After the symposium, Hsing-Hao Wu visited two of NUK’s partner universities, Dongguk University and Hanyang University, to further strengthen academic collaborations and student exchange programs. These efforts aim to enhance NUK’s international competitiveness and secure more opportunities for faculty and students to engage in international exchange and mobility initiatives.#SDG4 #SDG11 #SDG17 @ Office of International Affairs & events
EMBA Faculty and Students Visit Vietnamese Enterprises: Exploring Core Industries in Da Nang and Sharing Experiences of Taiwanese Business Success
【Translator： Ya-Hsin Wan】【Text and Photos: Ching-Ju Kang, Secretary of the Executive Management Training Center】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】2024-11-08 From October 30 to November 3, 2024, the National University of Kaohsiung EMBA program, led by the program director, conducted a five-day "Academic and Industrial Exchange Visit" in Da Nang, Vietnam. The delegation visited several renowned local enterprises, including Caesar Sanitary Ware, Cheng Shing Piston Company, and Uni-President (Vietnam). They also held discussion forums with members of the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce in Da Nang and local alumni. Through this comprehensive, on-site learning experience, the program provided participants with valuable opportunities for cross-border industrial insights and collaboration.The first scheduled stop of the trip was a visit to Foxlink Vietnam, a globally renowned manufacturer of electronic components specializing in high-tech products such as precision connectors, wireless communication, and optoelectronic integration. However, due to Foxlink's unexpected maintenance of its IT systems, the company was unable to host the delegation, which was a source of some regret. Additionally, the trip faced challenges from heavy rains in Da Nang, adding complexity to the itinerary. Nevertheless, the participants remained determined and enthusiastic, fully engaging in the subsequent visits. The rest of the itinerary included visits to companies in the sanitary ware, manufacturing, and food and feed industries, providing an in-depth understanding of these sectors’ development strategies in the Vietnamese market. Through discussions with senior executives, participants gained clearer insights into Vietnam’s industrial environment and economic trends, conducted market evaluations, and achieved significant learning outcomes.Next, the participants visited Caesar Sanitar, a leading player in Vietnam's sanitary ware industry. Known for its exceptional product design and quality management, Caesar has steadily grown its presence in the Vietnamese market. During the visit, company representatives shared Caesar's market strategies and provided an in-depth analysis of local consumer preferences and trends in the sanitary ware industry, offering participants valuable insights into the potential of Vietnam's domestic market. At Cheng Shing Piston Company, participants observed the complete manufacturing process of precision pistons. As one of Vietnam's key suppliers of automotive components, General Manager Chen explained the company's efforts in enhancing product quality and advancing technology. He also shared insights into the future development trends of Vietnam's automotive industry. The visit allowed participants to appreciate the dedication of traditional manufacturing industries to technological innovation and quality management.Finally, the participants visited the Uni-President (Vietnam)'s Quang Nam plant, a leader in the food industry. The company specializes in producing aquatic feed, livestock feed, flour, and instant noodles, boasting a comprehensive product line and exceptional quality. During the visit, Manager Xin-Bi Wang not only introduced the production processes but also guided the participants through a hands-on tour of the production line. He provided an in-depth analysis of market demand and competitive advantages in Vietnam's food processing industry. The visit offered participants fresh perspectives on leveraging local market analysis and product positioning to enhance business competitiveness.During the visit, the EMBA participants engaged in discussions with Zhi-Cheng Xu, President of the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce in Da Nang, board members, and alumni of the National University of Kaohsiung in Vietnam. The discussions covered local economic development and industry trends. Alumni shared their hands-on experiences in the Vietnamese market, including investment evaluation, regulatory risks, industry challenges, and future prospects, providing valuable insights for the participants. President Xu also shared the lessons learned from years of Taiwanese business development in Vietnam, emphasizing the market’s potential and the importance of local collaboration. This gave participants a deeper understanding of the unique characteristics and opportunities within the Vietnamese market. The exchange sparked numerous valuable insights and opened up new possibilities for academic-industry collaboration. The visit coincided with typhoons affecting both Taiwan and Vietnam, but faculty and students persevered through the challenging weather. After thorough safety assessments, the group successfully completed the itinerary as planned, demonstrating a "confidence in the storm" mindset. This experience gave participants a profound appreciation for the resilience and adaptability required in business operations while highlighting the enthusiasm for learning and determination to broaden international perspectives that Kaohsiung University EMBA students embody. A notable highlight of the trip occurred during the return flight. As the plane prepared for takeoff, a surprising announcement came over the cabin speakers: “This is your co-pilot for today’s flight, Bo-Xun Zhan…” The announcement sparked excitement among the participants, as Bo-Xun Zhan was a distinguished alumnus from the inaugural cohort of the Taitung EMBA program at NUK. The students felt immense pride and honor in returning to Kaohsiung aboard a flight co-piloted by one of their own.Despite being carried out amidst challenging weather and unforeseen circumstances, the corporate visit was filled with learning opportunities and delightful surprises. This experience underscored that NUK's EMBA program is not only a platform for academic growth but also a lifelong network for collaboration and mutual advancement. The program emphasizes not just theoretical learning in the classroom but also the development of practical skills through international industry visits. This trip showcased the core value of the NUK EMBA—integrating academics with industry. It provided participants with firsthand insights into the international market, broadened their horizons, and enhanced their capabilities.The NUK EMBA Center welcomes ambitious individuals who aspire to become outstanding senior management professionals to join our program. We are currently accepting applications for the 114th academic year’s Master’s EMBA Management Class and EMLBA Legal Management Class. Our program offers a comprehensive platform for further education, along with the opportunity for lifelong free learning after graduation. We invite you to join us and maintain your competitive edge by staying up-to-date with the times!#SDG4 #SDG8 #SDG9 #SDG11 #SDG12 #SDG17 @ Executive Management Training Center & events
Continuing the spirit of alliance and collaboration, NUK invites NSYSU for a campus exchange to discuss resource sharing and campus space planning.
【Translator：Siou-Yao Han】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】2024-11-22 On November 22, 2024, the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) invited the National Sun Yat-sen University (NSYSU) for a campus exchange. Both parties exchanged views on various topics, including research, teaching resource sharing, and campus space planning. They also reached a consensus on deepening collaboration and jointly enhancing the competitiveness of higher education.President Chi-Jen Chen of the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) and his team warmly welcomed President Chih-Peng Lee of National Sun Yat-sen University (NSYSU) and a delegation of nearly 30 executives, emphasizing the importance of the exchange.Chi-Jen Chen stated that the two universities have maintained a long-standing partnership since signing an alliance in 2014. They have collaborated closely in teaching and research, with faculty from both institutions guiding each other's students and co-publishing academic results, fostering strong interactive relationships. Given their geographical proximity, NUK and NSYSU each possess unique and complementary educational resources. In the rapidly changing environment of higher education, both sides share a consensus to strengthen the exchange and expand the scope of their collaboration. This initiative aims to address emerging challenges, solidify their presence in southern Taiwan, and set their sights on global opportunities.Chi-Jen Chen also highlighted NUK's proactive response to global trends such as AI, extreme climate change, and government initiatives on semiconductors and net-zero transformation strategies. The university has established research and industry-academic collaboration centers and has demonstrated accountability by publishing sustainability reports since 2018. Starting in 2022, NUK conducted and verified a comprehensive campus-wide greenhouse gas inventory, aligning with the "2050 Net-Zero Emissions" goal. Chen emphasized that the university fosters a high-quality learning and academic environment to address global rapid changes and meet national industrial demands while deeply engaging with the local community to fulfill its social responsibility as a university.President Chih-Peng Lee of NSYSU remarked that over the years, NSYSU and NUK have engaged in extensive collaboration across teaching, research, library resources, student activities, and administration, strengthening their research capabilities in various fields. NSYSU has consistently sought to connect universities and research institutions in the Kaohsiung area, forming teams to secure major projects and develop research in distinctive areas. These include advancing medical research, next-generation semiconductor growth and packaging, quantum cybersecurity, marine engineering, and integrated coastal city management. Additional efforts target modernizing traditional industries such as steel, petrochemicals, agriculture, and aquaculture through high technology, as well as research on environmental sustainability, circular economy, and efficient energy and water resource management. Lee expressed hope for further innovation and deepened collaboration with NUK to foster mutual prosperity and development for the Kaohsiung area.Presidents Chi-Jen Chen and Chih-Peng Lee exchanged commemorative gifts on behalf of their respective universities, followed by a group photo with executives from both institutions. The NSYSU delegation also toured the NUK campus to experience its unique features, sparking ideas for future collaborations.#SDG4 #SDG17 @Secretariat & Activities
The "Club Carnival" at National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) kicks off! President Chi-jen Chen encourages students to participate, make friends, and learn diverse skills.
【Text by：Student Association President Zhe-Wei Gu； Edited by：Public Affairs Section】【Translator：Siou-Yao Han】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】 2024-10-08 On the evening of the 7th, National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) held a "Club Carnival" at the Student Activity Center, where hundreds of student clubs showcased their achievements over the years and recruited new members. President Chi-Jen Chen attended the event, sharing his own experience of joining three clubs simultaneously during his university days. Despite the busy schedule, he gained valuable skills and friendships, experiences that greatly benefited his future development. He encouraged NUK students to actively participate in club activities to enrich their university life. Chi-Jen Chen shared that stepping into the Student Activity Center immediately brought back memories of his university days. At that time, he joined three clubs at once, which left him overwhelmed and led to failing several subjects. However, he never gave up on his club activities because he saw them as an important part of university life. Through these activities, he was able to meet people from different backgrounds and learn diverse skills. Chen encouraged students to make the most of their club experiences. Many years after graduation, he not only fondly remembers those times but also realizes how the experiences helped him connect with society, learning valuable skills in interpersonal communication, problem-solving, and more, all of which have been extremely useful. Dean of Student Affairs Division, Ming-Yue Wang, gave a speech thanking the colleagues from the Student Affairs Division and the staffs of the Student Association for bringing such an exciting and wonderful evening to the students. She also encouraged students to "visit every booth," believing that everyone would find a club they would like to join. The "Club Carnival" was guided by the Student Affairs Division of National University of Kaohsiung and organized by the Student Association. Student Association President Zhe-Wei Gu stated that nearly 100 student clubs were invited to showcase their unique features and achievements, ranging from academic, arts, and sports to volunteer services. To encourage participation, students were invited to engage in face-to-face interactions with the club leaders, participate in interactive games, and win souvenirs. Additionally, a "Night Market" was set up outside the venue, inviting popular vendors to sell food, specialty items, and more. Zhe-Wei Gu mentioned that seeing students happily join clubs made him feel that organizing the Club Carnival was worth it. He also revealed that the Student Association of NUK will be launching more events in the future.#SDG4 @Student Affairs Division @Student Association & Events
Indonesian and Vietnamese Students Promote Local Cuisine and Culture at the Exhibition; Vice President Hsing-Hao Wu Encourages International Students to Understand Taiwan for Mutual Prosperity and Harmony.
【Text and Photos: Mei-Dai Hou, Section Chief of the International Student Affairs Section, Office of International Affairs; Edited by the Public Affairs Section】【Translator：Ya-Hsin Wan】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】 2024-10-14Embodying the spirit of local prosperity and harmony, the Office of International Affairs at the National University of Kaohsiung led international students from Indonesia, Vietnam, and other countries to participate in the “Little Southeast Asia Carnival.” At the event, they promoted authentic traditional cuisine and culture, supporting the Kaohsiung City Government’s efforts to shape a vibrant, inclusive, and livable city. Hsing-Hao Wu, Vice President of Administration at the National University of Kaohsiung, led faculty and students in attending the "A Taste of Southeast Asia and More..." This event was co-hosted by the Kaohsiung City Government, the Kaohsiung Friends of Indonesia Association, and the Kaohsiung Little Southeast Asia Development Association. It marked the third consecutive year since 2022 that NUK has participated in this grand event. Hsing-Hao Wu, who also serves as the Dean of International Affairs, Office of International Affairs, stated that NUK encourages every international student who has journeyed far to study at NUK to not only excel academically but also actively engage in learning about Taiwan's culture and the people, events, and places of this land. NUK offers timely support to these students as part of its commitment to realizing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal 4 (Quality Education), Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). For example, since the start of the Little Southeast Asia Carnival, NUK has participated annually. This year, the International Student Affairs Division and the International Foundation Program sponsored the Indonesian and Vietnamese student associations, each with a booth to promote their local cuisine and culture. This experience not only fostered unity and knowledge-sharing among students but also encouraged interactions and exchanges with fellow students from other universities and members of the local community. Despite preparing extra supplies based on previous years' strong sales, Indonesian and Vietnamese students at NUK increased their stock. However, due to the authentic local flavors, demand exceeded supply, and everything sold out before the event even concluded.#SDG4 #SDG11#SDG17 @ Office of International Affairs & events
President Chi-Jen Chen of the National University of Kaohsiung Commends Ming-Yue Wang, Shiau-Wen Tian, Tzu-Yu Lin, and Jin-Sian Su for their Outstanding Performances in Paralympic Table Tennis.
【Translator：Ya-Hsin Wan】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】 President Chi-Jen Chen of the National University of Kaohsiung received and honored NUK students and faculty members Ming-Yue Wang, Shiau-Wen Tian, Tzu-Yu Lin, and Jin-Sian Su today (12th), presenting them with bonuses and praising their outstanding performances in the Paris Paralympic table tennis events. They achieved remarkable results for Taiwan, securing a silver medal in the Women’s Doubles WD20 category and a bronze medal in the Women’s Singles TT10 category. On behalf of the university, President Chi-Jen Chen expressed appreciation to Ming-Yue Wang and her team for their hard work. During the Paralympics, he closely followed each match, monitoring the situation on screen. He praised their remarkable performances, saying they "showcased Taiwan and the National University of Kaohsiung to the world." President Chen also emphasized the university's commitment to developing specialized sports programs and continuously discovering and nurturing outstanding students to shine globally. Vice-President of Administration Hsing-Hao Wu, Chief Secretary Shing-Tai Pan, Director of the Physical Education Office and Chair of the Department of Athletic Performance, Chi-Chan Lin, and Chair of the Department of Kinesiology, Health and Leisure Studies, Chiu-Chen Chang, also attended the event to offer their congratulations. Professor of the Department of Athletic Performance Ming-Yue Wang, who also serves as the Dean of Student Affairs, has long guided her three apprentices, including Shiau-Wen Tian. This time, she took on the significant responsibility as the head coach of Taiwan's table tennis team, leading the team to achieve an impressive haul of three silver and two bronze medals. Ming-Yue Wang mentioned that since the women's doubles event was scheduled to start first, Shiau-Wen Tian and Tzu-Yu Lin had to take the lead. Despite the "immense pressure," they not only withstood it but also secured several victories, boosting the morale of the entire team. Their mental toughness and resilience are commendable. The duo of Shiau-Wen Tian and Tzu-Yu Lin teamed up to win a silver medal in the Women’s Doubles WD20 category, with Shiau-Wen also earning an individual bronze medal in the TT10 category. Both athletes are continuing their studies in the master’s program of the Department of Kinesiology, Health and Leisure Studies. Their junior, Jin-Sian Su, a sophomore in the Department of Athletic Performance, played a crucial role as a sparring partner, helping the two senior athletes prepare for their final push before the competition and contributing significantly to their medal achievements.#SDG3 #SDG4 @ Department of Athletic Performance & events
National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) presented large storage bags to teachers on Teacher's Day, wishing them a fruitful academic exchange.
【Translator：Siou-Yao Han】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】 President Chi-Jen Chen of National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) attended the 'New Faculty Forum' today (23rd) to express his welcome to the new members joining the NUK team. He encouraged them to engage in innovative and interdisciplinary research collaborations, fostering their second and third specialties. Additionally, he visited various colleges and the General Education Center to wish teachers a happy Teacher's Day in advance, presenting them with ' foldable travel bag ' to wish them fruitful participation in academic exchanges both domestically and internationally. Chi-Jen Chen reflected on his own experience 21 years ago when he first joined National University of Kaohsiung, feeling both nervous and excited, looking forward to realizing his aspirations. After decades, he has personally witnessed that NUK is a campus with academic freedom and ample room for development, an atmosphere cultivated and maintained by the collective efforts of all the faculty members. He encouraged the new faculty members to not only focus on teaching and research but also actively participate in university service, gaining administrative experience and broadening their perspectives. Chi-Jen Chen stated that in response to national development policies, the Ministry of Education and the National Science and Technology Council are moving towards interdisciplinary innovation and collaborative research themes. Given the changing industries around National University of Kaohsiung and its key location within the semiconductor corridor, the university will fully support faculty members in conducting cross-departmental and interdisciplinary research to jointly enhance NUK's academic capabilities. The 'New Faculty Forum' and 'Teacher's Day Event' were organized by the Personnel Office, which prepared over 200 'foldable travel bags' that can be attached to suitcase handles, making them quite practical and stylish.#SDG4 &Activities
President Chi-Jen Chen of the NUK promotes net-zero sustainability, strengthens USR partnership connections, and collaborates on ESG during the Supervisor Consensus Camp
【Translator：Siou-Yao Han】 【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】2024-08-30 Before the new academic year started, the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) President Chi-Jen Chen led senior management in hosting a consensus camp. The two-day agenda on the 28th and 29th focused on seven key themes, including encouraging diverse teaching methods and creating an innovative learning environment to strengthen the unity between administrative and academic units. To execute the Higher Education Deepening Plan, and promote university affairs' development. Chi-Jen Chen stated, "Although it's a new team, there are many veterans." He expressed gratitude to the faculty members for being willing to take on administrative responsibilities in addition to their busy teaching and research schedules, and for their joint efforts in continuously advancing NUK. He also extended special thanks to Yi-hsiu Lai, Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, for her presence and guidance during the event. Chi-Jen Chen emphasized that to achieve the goal of net-zero sustainability in university development, future efforts will focus on strengthening connections with USR partner schools, actively participating in the Low Carbon Industry Alliance, and negotiating key collaboration projects with major tech companies to align with shaping NUK as an ESG platform within the S-shaped technology corridor. Additionally, proposals for collaboration with local governments and cross-domain governance projects will be actively put forward. About university operations, concrete improvement measures and action plans such as streamlining meeting formats to enhance administrative efficiency are introduced. Several specific implementation plans will also address improving the quality of life for faculty and students on campus, optimizing the internet, campus spaces, and dining facilities, and, particularly, providing enhanced alumni services. The consensus camp focused on seven strategic themes, including: "Encouraging diverse teaching methods and creating an innovative learning environment," "Integrating research capabilities and strengthening reward mechanisms," "Effectively managing space and optimizing the environmental quality of the campus, " "Implementing administrative reforms and moving toward financial sustainability," "Sharing resources and fulfilling social responsibility," "Establishing a low-carbon smart campus and ESG operations center," and "Driving international connections and exerting influence." The management team engaged in thorough discussions and reached multiple points of consensus. #SDG4 @ Secretariat &Activities
The “Summer School” Students from Sister Schools of the National University of Kaohsiung Visit Cultural Sites in Taiwan, Experience Local Customs, and Promote a Friendly Understanding of Taiwan
【Translator：Ya-Hsin Wan】【Text and Photos Provided by: Associate Professor Ma Yu-Pin, Department of Architecture and Head of the Office of International Affairs; Edited by: Public Affairs Section】 【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】2024-08-21 Following the positive feedback, the National University of Kaohsiung once again held the "Summer School" during this year's (2024) summer break, attracting nearly 40 students from sister schools, including the Philippines. The university organized courses on sustainability, climate, and Mandarin language, as well as guided the participants on visits to cultural sites like Meinong and hands-on activities, allowing them to experience Taiwan's unique local customs. The 10-day program was a fruitful and enriching experience. The Office of International Affairs at the National University of Kaohsiung organized the "Summer School," a 10-day program from late July to early August. Vice-President of Administration, Hsing-Hao Wu, stated that last year's (2023) inaugural event received highly positive feedback, with sister schools continuously inquiring about it, leading to this year's continuation. The participants, more than 30 in total, came from the Philippines, India, Thailand, Vietnam, and Japan, and seven students from the National University of Kaohsiung were also assigned as team mentors to promote interaction and exchange. Hsing-Hao Wu pointed out that this year's courses covered topics such as "International Affairs," "Sustainable Development," "Basic Mandarin," and "Exploration of Taiwan's History and Culture." The program also invited Professor Ebinezer Florano from the University of the Philippines Diliman and emerging Hungarian scholar Dorka Takacsy to lecture on EU development and geopolitical risk analysis, enhancing the academic value of the event. Hsing-Hao Wu emphasized that the Summer School is dedicated to promoting love and peace, highlighting the National University of Kaohsiung's commitment to establishing a foundation in Asia while engaging globally, and fostering exchange among young people from various countries.During the program, participants visited Meinong Hakka Culture, Qishan Old Stree, and the National Museum of Taiwan History, and engaged in hands-on DIY activities. These experiences allowed them to gain a deeper understanding of Taiwan's historical development, enhancing their knowledge of and goodwill toward the country, further embodying the university's role in citizen diplomacy. #SDG4 #SDG17 @Office of International Affairs &Events
Professor Chi-Jen Chen of the Department of Architecture of the National University of Kaohsiung Takes Over the Role of the 7th President.
【Translator：Ya-Hsin Wan】 【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】 2024-07-31 The National University of Kaohsiung held a gratitude and succession ceremony for the outgoing and incoming presidents. Professor Chi-Jen Chen of the Department of Architecture will officially become the 7th President on August 1st. He emphasized the promotion of four major development strategies: "cross-disciplinary innovation," "industry collaboration," "local practice," and "international alignment," along with seven main themes and thirty action plans to ensure continuous progress for the NUK. Additionally, on behalf of the university, he presented a colored glaze to the outgoing President, Yueh-Tuan Chen, to express gratitude and recognition for her achievements over the past four years. The Mayor of Kaohsiung Chi-Mai Chen attended the ceremony to convey his appreciation for the long-term support both individuals have provided in promoting the city's governance. Chi-Jen Chen stated that taking over the role of the president means bearing significant responsibility while striving for mutual success. The National University of Kaohsiung was founded under the visionary planning of its founding President, Ren-Hong Wang, and has seen diligent leadership from subsequent presidents, including Ing-Chung Huang, Jow-Lay Huang, Shyue-Liang Wang, and Yueh-Tuan Chen. These leaders have not only overcome difficult challenges but have also bravely opened new chapters for the university. In particular, the recent governance achievements are evident in the recent university affairs evaluation, where the National University of Kaohsiung not only passed but also received a six-year accreditation. Chi-Jen Chen pointed out that among the four major development strategies, "cross-disciplinary innovation" will integrate global sustainability issues, establish a cross-disciplinary learning mechanism, display departmental characteristics, and create a balance between the humanities and technology to cultivate the talents needed for the next generation. "Industry collaboration" will leverage diverse cross-disciplinary expertise to connect with high-tech industries, assisting small and medium enterprises in transformation and sustainable operations. Chi-Jen Chen emphasized that the four major development strategies extend into seven main themes: diverse teaching, integrated research capabilities, effective space management, implementation of administrative reforms, shared resource platforms, establishing a low-carbon smart campus, and driving international connections. He expressed his aspiration to build a university governance team that can serve as a model for others to follow. The outgoing president, Yueh-Tuan Chen, expressed that it was an honor to be elected as the 6th president four years ago. She claimed for "linking industry and society," responding to national policies, and emphasizing the university's value and social responsibility. During her tenure, the Department of Athletic Performance established a soccer team and a representative football team, which successively won the championships in the men's third and second levels of the University Football Association. Additionally, she strived for an artificial grass football field certified by FIFA. Additionally, she collaborated with the Sports Administration of the Ministry of Education to establish an "Industry Talent Training Center" and partnered with the Workforce Development Agency of the Ministry of Labor to launch the "S Corridor Technology Industry Talent Training Center." She also joined forces with ASE Group to establish a university-level industry-academia collaboration center, demonstrating efforts to cultivate more semiconductor talent for the nation. Due to the active cultivation of students' cross-disciplinary abilities and the effective integration of learning and application, the university was honored in the "Cheers" survey of "2,000 Enterprises' Favorite University Graduates," ranking first among "Public General Medium-Sized Universities" for two successive years. Chi-Jen Chen holds a Ph.D. in Engineering from École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) and is currently a professor in the Department of Architecture at the National University of Kaohsiung. His research expertise includes wood-frame building regulations and industry promotion strategies, sustainable design and optimization of post-disaster housing, development of expandable modular emergency housing systems, life cycle assessment and comparative studies of low-carbon buildings, and the revitalization of atypical buildings and the creation of innovative spaces. Within the university, he has served as Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dean of Academic Affairs, Dean of General Affairs, and Director of the General Education Center. Chi-Jen Chen has leveraged his expertise to dedicate himself to the preservation of cultural heritage buildings for an extended period. His efforts include projects such as the Zuoying Naval Dependents' Village, the Old City of Fengshan, and more recent undertakings like the Shoyoen Japanese Garden and Yancheng First Public Retail Market. In 2022, he was awarded the highest honor in the Kaohsiung arts and cultural circle, the "Kaohsiung Award for Arts," becoming the first recipient in the "Cultural Heritage" category. #SDG4
