SDGs永續行動網
行動與實踐
Bidding Farewell to an Icon, Welcoming New Life: National University of Kaohsiung Chronicles Sustainability and Life Education through Campus Landscapes
【Text: You-Ching Chen, Environmental Health and Safety Division, Office of General Affairs; Edited by: Public Affairs Section】【Translated with the assistance of Google Gemini】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】 On March 28, 2026, the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) hosted a poignant event titled "Farewell to the Coral Tree, Awaiting New Blessings" as part of its 115th Sustainability Week. The ceremony was held at the Coral Tree Plaza to bid a final farewell to a majestic Erythrina (Coral Tree) that had graced the campus for 26 years, while simultaneously welcoming a young Bischofia (Bishop Wood) sapling that naturally sprouted at the same site. Through rituals, exhibitions, and participatory design, NUK has transformed its campus landscape into a living laboratory for environmental education, demonstrating the integration of spatial governance, life education, and sustainable development.NUK President Chi-Jen Chen remarked that the Coral Tree was transplanted during the university's early founding years and has been an integral part of daily life for faculty and students, witnessing the campus's growth from its inception. "A campus is more than just a collection of buildings and facilities; it is woven from human memories and lived experiences," President Chen stated. He emphasized that when a space carries stories, "sustainability" ceases to be a mere slogan and becomes a tangible action. The coexistence of the old tree’s decline and the new sapling’s emergence provides an opportunity to rethink "replacement" and "continuity." "This is not just an ceremony; we are becoming storytellers of history and guardians of life," he added.Professor Emeritus Shih-Meng Huang, the former Dean of General Affairs, recalled the university's early days of land grading and construction. He noted that the Coral Tree entered the campus through root pruning and transplantation at a time when resources were scarce. However, early soil and environmental limitations posed long-term challenges for the tree's growth. Professor Huang pointed out that the value of campus space lies in its "memorability"—from the shade of trees to stone benches—all forming a narrative experience. He suggested that the management of the old tree should honor its historical significance, ensuring the campus remains a cultural space that "tells a story."Dean of General Affairs Yi-Kai Chen stated that the university has established a robust tree risk assessment and health monitoring mechanism in recent years. This system involves regular grading and management of aging or pest-affected trees to ensure campus safety while maintaining ecological health. The decision regarding the Coral Tree was a necessary one based on long-term professional evaluation. Moving forward, the Coral Tree Plaza will integrate course instruction and design proposals to promote site reuse and environmental education.From Pest Infestation to Ecological SuccessionThe Coral Tree, a landmark since its transplantation in 2000, had been battling the invasive "Erythrina Gall Wasp" since 2005. Despite years of chemical treatment and surgical pruning, the pest proved impossible to eradicate. Combined with structural damage from typhoons, the tree's vitality declined until it was deemed unsuitable for preservation. Consequently, the university decided to remove the tree for safety and holistic ecological management.The event featured a retrospective of the tree’s history, stories shared by founding faculty, and a themed exhibition. Participants were invited to witness the final cutting and removal process to deepen their understanding of urban forest management. Additionally, DIY commemorative items were designed to transform campus memories into portable symbols.As the university bid farewell to the Coral Tree, the naturally sprouted Bishop Wood sapling marked a new beginning. During the "Welcoming" segment, students and faculty wrote messages of hope on blessing cards for the sapling, symbolizing the ecological cycle and the continuity of life. The Sustainability Week theme, "Remembering the Coral, Moving Forward Together," successfully turned natural change into an educational milestone.Furthermore, NUK is launching a photo and story collection campaign titled "The Days with the Coral Tree" to document the collective memory of the campus landscape. In the future, the university will continue to redefine its public spaces through curriculum integration, ensuring that sustainability is reflected not only in environmental maintenance but also in cultural accumulation and daily practice.#SDG4 #SDG11 #SDG15 @OfficeofGeneralAffairs &Event
NUK and Yokohama City University Deepen Taiwan-Japan Academic Cooperation through Sakura Science Program
【Text: Associate Professor Yi-JaoChen, Department of Architecture; Photo: Yokohama City University】【Translated with the assistance of Google Gemini】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】2026-03-11Under the support of the Sakura Science Program promoted by the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), a delegation of faculty and students from the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) recently traveled to Yokohama City University (YCU) in Japan to participate in an eight-day, seven-night international urban learning workshop. Led by NUK President Chi-Jen CHEN and Associate Professor Yi-Jao Chen from the Department of Architecture, the delegation included students specializing in fields such as architecture and law. Through academic lectures, field observations, and international exchange, the participants gained deep insights into the historical development, urban governance, and sustainability policies of Japanese port cities.During the visit, President Chi-Jen CHEN also held a formal meeting with YCU President Yoshihiro Ishikawa to discuss future academic research, student exchanges, and international collaborative curricula. Both leaders expressed their commitment to deepening cooperation between Taiwanese and Japanese higher education institutions, specifically expanding opportunities in urban studies and interdisciplinary education.The workshop commenced at YCU’s Minato Mirai Campus, with the participation and assistance of Professor Shinji Suzuki and Associate Professor Eri Aoki. In the opening session, Professor Suzuki presented on the "Urban Development History of Yokohama," outlining the city’s evolution since the opening of its port. The curriculum then extended to the Minato Mirai 21 district, where students learned about the historical context of urban redevelopment and the role of regional energy systems in low-carbon transitions. The group conducted on-site visits to local district heating and cooling facilities, while officials from the Yokohama Municipal Government shared the city’s net-zero emission policies and the "GREEN×EXPO" development strategy.For courses on urban planning and community regeneration, the delegation visited the Koganecho area. YCU Professor Masahiko Nakanishi introduced Japan's urban planning systems and practical cases in Yokohama, while Professor Suzuki discussed "Art and Community Regeneration," explaining how culture serves as a catalyst for urban renewal. By visiting local art spaces and community sites, students observed how a once-declining neighborhood has gradually rebuilt its vitality through artistic and cultural initiatives.Regarding port city governance, the Yokohama Port and Harbor Bureau introduced development strategies for the Yokohama waterfront within the framework of environmental policy and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Students conducted walking surveys through Motomachi, Yamate, and Yamashita Park, and visited the Yokohama Archives of History to understand the city's transformation from a traditional port town into an international maritime hub. Furthermore, the group traveled to the Marunouchi district in Tokyo. Through a specialized seminar and guided tour by Mitsubishi Estate, they learned about Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models in large-scale Japanese urban renewal projects and long-term spatial strategies for central business districts.To observe historical urban environments, the delegation also conducted a field survey in the ancient capital of Kamakura, visiting the Great Buddha and the bamboo grove at Hokokuji Temple. Upon returning to campus, student groups presented their findings, re-evaluating the relationships between environmental policy, urban governance, and cultural preservation from the perspective of historical urban spaces. Notably, this workshop continued a collaboration established in September 2025, when a team from YCU visited NUK to study Kaohsiung’s own port city development.President Chi-Jen CHEN stated that the Sakura Science Program provides an international platform where students can observe urban development and public policy in a real-world setting. He noted that such immersive learning not only expands students' international horizons but also provides new inspirations from different governance and cultural contexts. Moving forward, NUK will continue to deepen its partnership with international peers like YCU to cultivate talent with global perspectives and interdisciplinary skills. This international mobility experience has established a robust foundation for future cooperation in teaching, research, and student exchange between the two universities.#SDG4 #SDG7 #SDG11 #SDG17 @Department of Architecture&Events
NUK and Sister School Kyung Hee University Deepen Exchange Through Taiwan Cultural Study Program
【Photo Credit: Associate Professor Ching Tung, Wang, Department of East Asian Languages and Literature】【Translated with the assistance of Google Gemini】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】 A delegation of faculty and students from South Korea’s Kyung Hee University (KHU), a sister institution of the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK), has embarked on a two-week Taiwan cultural study and field exchange program. Associate Professor Wang Ching-tung, the program coordinator from the Department of East Asian Languages and Literature, stated that by combining classroom learning with field investigations, students gain a profound understanding of Taiwan's historical and cultural context while personally experiencing the warm and pleasant winter climate of Southern Taiwan.This "Winter Kyung Hee University Special Program" is held during the winter break, primarily for students from KHU's College of Humanities. The curriculum is diverse, covering themes such as "Decision-making Wisdom," "Applied Philosophy," "Philosophy and Art Appreciation," "Comparison of Western and Asian Cultures," "Modern History of Taiwan," and "Taiwan's Ethnic Groups and Languages." Through interdisciplinary perspectives, students are guided to systematically understand Taiwan's social development and cultural characteristics.In addition to academic studies, several cultural field trips were organized, including visits to the Anping Harborside Historical Scenic Area in Tainan, the Taiwan Indigenous Peoples Cultural Park in Pingtung, the Pier-2 Art Center in Kaohsiung, and Eluanbi, the southernmost cape of Taiwan. Through these field tours, students experience the diverse fusion and historical evolution of Taiwanese culture within actual historical sites and natural landscapes.NUK's Department of East Asian Languages and Literature has long maintained close cooperative relationships with over 40 sister schools in South Korea and continues to promote bilateral exchanges. Such overseas study activities not only strengthen academic and cultural links between the two sides but also create practical participation opportunities for NUK's Korean-language majors, enhancing their cross-cultural communication skills and international competitiveness, while laying a foundation for future exchanges in Korea and career development.The program has been widely praised by Korean students since its founding in 2016. Compared to the severe cold of minus 10 degrees Celsius common during Korean winters, Kaohsiung's warm and comfortable winter environment has become a key factor in attracting students to enroll.Participating students Choi Eun-seo and Yoon Se-gyeong stated that recommendations from their seniors motivated them to actively seek this opportunity to visit Taiwan. They pointed out that South Korea and Taiwan share similar historical backgrounds and cultural interaction contexts. This trip has not only deepened their understanding of Taiwanese society but also allowed them to experience the warm hospitality of NUK's faculty and students. They hope to continue expanding bilateral exchange and cooperation in the future.#SDG4 #SDG17 @Department of East Asian Languages and Literature &Events
Into the Season of Purple Crow Butterflies: NUK Language Center Leads International Students to Discover Taiwan’s Forests and Tribal Stories
【Text and Photos: Su Rui-min, Language Center】【Translated with the assistance of Google Gemini】 To deepen international students' understanding of Taiwan's natural environment and diverse culture, the Language Center of the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) recently organized a "Maolin Ecological Field Trip" during the migration season of the Purple Crow butterflies, leading international students from various countries into the Maolin National Scenic Area. Through ecological investigation, tribal tours, and cultural experiences, the activity guided students to recognize Taiwan's mountain landscapes and local culture through practical exploration, concluding successfully.During the itinerary, students walked along the butterfly-watching trails and visited the Maolin Purple Crow Butterfly Ecological Park to appreciate the world-class ecological spectacle of clustered overwintering butterflies up close, showcasing Taiwan's significant position in the global ecosystem. The swarms of butterflies fluttering across the sky left deep and unforgettable learning memories for the international students. Under the guidance of professional explanations, students not only learned about the ecological characteristics and habitat conservation concepts of the Purple Crow butterfly but also further reflected on the relationship between human activities and coexistence with nature.Walking through the valleys, students personally felt the ecological scale of Maolin's primeval forests and explored the "Little Great Wall" trail, characterized by its unique landscape, at the Longtou Mountain Recreation Area. Through the walking experience, they understood the interaction between natural terrain and man-made facilities, ensuring that ecological learning was not limited to observation but became an experience of physical participation.In addition to natural ecological guidance, the field study instructors led students deep into the Dona Tribe for cultural explanations, introducing the context of tribal life and cultural background. The trip also arranged a handmade Aiyu (jelly) experience, allowing students to learn about Taiwan's local food culture and life wisdom through hands-on practice, further deepening their understanding of Taiwan's multiculturalism.The Language Center stated that this activity combined language learning, ecological education, and cultural experience, allowing international students to step out of the classroom to use language and understand culture in a real-world setting, gradually building their knowledge of Taiwan's land and society. In the future, the center will continue to plan diverse field study activities to create a learning environment with greater depth and international perspective.
Cheers Magazine’s "2026 Most Preferred University Students by Enterprises" Survey: NUK Ranks 1st Among Medium-Sized Universities and Continues to Rise Nationally
【Translated with the assistance of Google Gemini】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】2026-01-19 Cheers magazine has released its latest "2026 Most Preferred University Students by Enterprises" survey. Among the top 30 universities, the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK)—which has the smallest student body on the list with approximately 6,000 students—has delivered a stellar performance over the past two years. NUK not only retained its No. 1 ranking among medium-sized universities but also continued its significant upward trend, placing 24th nationwide this year. This reflects the steady accumulation of the university’s educational achievements.NUK President Chen Chi-Jen stated that the continuous rise in rankings is the result of long-term dedication to teaching, research, and administrative excellence by the entire faculty and student body. He expressed his gratitude to the staff and students for their contributions, which have allowed the university to move forward steadily.President Chen pointed out that in recent years, the university has identified "Cross-disciplinary Innovation," "Industry Linkage," "Local Practice," and "International Connection" as its core development strategies. Through cross-departmental collaboration and teamwork, the university has refined students' fundamental skills while cultivating their ability for interdisciplinary integration and practical application. Looking ahead, NUK will continue to deepen teaching quality and industry-academia ties, integrating University Social Responsibility (USR) with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to drive the university’s growth.President Chen emphasized that NUK is strategically located at the hub of the Southern Taiwan Semiconductor S-Corridor. Recognizing this vital industrial position, the university has proactively responded to industry needs by collaborating with major electronics firms, including TSMC, to design specialized programs that strengthen talent cultivation and industrial supply chain links.According to Cheers, the "Most Preferred University Students by Enterprises" survey has been conducted for 30 years, documenting the evolving reputation of universities among employers. By surveying HR managers from the top 2,000 enterprises, it serves as a crucial reference for higher education and talent development.This year’s results show that among the top 30 universities, 13 are public comprehensive universities. NUK stands out for having the fewest students while ranking first among medium-sized institutions. Cheers reports also noted that NUK’s steady rise in recent years reflects its success in bridging the gap between learning and application, promoting interdisciplinary studies, and fostering industry links—efforts that are increasingly being recognized by the corporate sector.Cheers Magazine 2026 Survey Link: https://www.cheers.com.tw/article/article.action?id=5105265#SDG4 @Secretariat & Research
National University of Kaohsiung Initiates a New Chapter in Taiwan-Vietnam Multilateral Industry-Academia Strategic Partnership
【Text and Photo: Quang Hung Bui, Associate Professor of the Department of East Asian Languages and Literature & Section Chief of the Office of International Affairs】【Translator：Siou-Yao Han】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】 On December 30, 2025, Dr. Chi-Jen Chen, President of the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK), led a delegation including Vice President Hsing-Hao Wu, Dean of International Affairs Hsing-Ju Lin, Section Chief Quang Hung Bui, and Specialist Lam Hong Bui to visit their technology partner, CT Group, in Vietnam. The visit aimed to actively expand cross-border strategic partnerships with Vietnam’s high-tech industry. During the visit, a four-party Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between NUK, CT Group, Can Tho University (CTU), and the Chen-yung Memorial Foundation, focusing on talent cultivation and research collaboration in the fields of AI and semiconductors.CT Group is a leading technology conglomerate in Vietnam in the fields of artificial intelligence and semiconductor technology. Can Tho University is one of Vietnam's 11 key national universities and the largest and most influential higher education institution in the Mekong Delta region. The NUK delegation was personally received by Mr. Kim Chung Tran, Chairman of CT Group. Dr. Van Lam Le, Vice President of Can Tho University, and Mr. Thai Nhan Hua, Director of the Department of External Affairs and International Training, along with several professors from the Department of Physics and the Department of Electrical Engineering, also accompanied the visit to CT Group’s high-tech exhibition area, which showcased R&D achievements in semiconductor technology, carbon-reducing green buildings, and drones.Simultaneously, NUK held multilateral talks with CT Group, Can Tho University, and the Chen-yung Memorial Foundation. President Chi-Jen Chen provided a detailed introduction to the characteristics of NUK’s colleges, outlining specific cooperation directions for semiconductor technology and AI. Professor Chih-Hung Wu, Director of the Artificial Intelligence Research Center at NUK, also presented the center’s current development and a future blueprint for Taiwan-Vietnam collaboration in AI application research.During the meeting, a strategic consensus was reached on talent cultivation and research cooperation in AI and semiconductors, leading to the signing of the four-party MOU. Beyond industry-academia cooperation in key technology sectors, CT Group, Can Tho University, and the Chen-yung Memorial Foundation will work with NUK to actively encourage outstanding Vietnamese students to study at NUK, cultivating high-level talent for the regional high-tech industry. The Chen-yung Memorial Foundation upholds the mission of "promoting long-term exchange in economy, education, and technology between Taiwan and Vietnam." Its CEO, Mr. Wen-Chu Hsien, who has been deeply involved in Taiwan-Vietnam relations for many years, played a key role in bridging elite enterprises and academic institutions, facilitating this multilateral international collaboration.President Chi-Jen Chen stated that this visit not only marks a new development in the multilateral and diverse cooperation between higher education and the technology industry in Taiwan and Vietnam but also highlights NUK's pivotal role as a regional hub for high-tech research and talent cultivation. The exchange and cooperation between NUK, top Vietnamese universities, and tech enterprises have entered a more pragmatic, diverse, and sustainable new era.#SDG4 #SDG9 #SDG17 @ Office of International Affairs & Activities
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 President Chi-Jen Chen Visits South Korea to Expand Academic Ties and Speak at Global Education Innovation Symposium
【Text and Photos by: Yuan-Ju Hsu , Office of International Affairs】【Translator：Siou-Yao Han】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】 President Chi-Jen Chen of National University of Kaohsiung (NUK), accompanied by Director of International Affairs Hsing Ju Lin, led a delegation to South Korea from December 14 to 18, 2025. The delegation attended the 3rd Global Education Innovation Symposium, hosted by NUK’s sister university, Hanbat National University, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen international academic collaboration.Invited as a keynote speaker, President Chen delivered a featured address entitled “Building a Semiconductor Talent Ecosystem in Southern Taiwan: How Universities Can Lead Innovation and Industry Collaboration.” In his speech, he shared Kaohsiung City’s strategic approach and NUK’s practical experience in supporting the development of the semiconductor industry, with a particular focus on higher education’s role in cultivating industry-ready talent.President Chen emphasized that universities play a pivotal role within the high-tech industrial ecosystem—not only by educating skilled professionals, but also by serving as critical platforms that connect government policy, academic research, and industrial innovation.During the visit, the NUK delegation also held meetings with the president and senior administrators of Hanbat National University. Both sides engaged in in-depth discussions on future collaboration and reached a preliminary consensus on co-hosting “Twin City Forums,” an international symposium series. The forums are expected to focus on semiconductor-driven and high-tech-led urban transformation, linking the governance and industrial development experiences of Daejeon and Kaohsiung, with the goal of fostering long-term collaboration between Taiwanese and Korean cities and academic institutions.In addition, the delegation visited Ewha Womans University, where Director Hsing Ju Lin formally invited the university to join the Asia Virtual Academy (AVA). The initiative aims to jointly promote diverse international academic exchange and cooperation programs. The two institutions also arranged meetings with the Department of Architecture at Ewha Womans University to discuss potential collaborations, including joint international workshops, faculty and student exchanges, and cross-institutional teaching models. Through practice-oriented teaching and research activities, both sides hope to deepen cooperation on architectural and urban studies.President Chen noted that the visit not only strengthened substantive partnerships with Korean sister and partner universities, but also demonstrated NUK’s proactive engagement in semiconductor talent development, industry–academia collaboration, and global networking. Looking ahead, NUK will continue to advance cross-border academic exchanges and city-level cooperation, further enhancing Kaohsiung’s visibility within global networks of high-tech innovation and education.#SDG4 #SDG9 #SDG17 @ Office of International Affairs & Activities
Southern Culture Carnival Never Absent! National University of Kaohsiung Faculty and Students Make Friends Through Indonesian and Vietnamese Cuisine, Showcasing International Education Achievements
【Text and Photos: Section Chief Mei-Dai Hou, Office of International Affairs; Edited by: Public Affairs Section】【Translator：Siou-Yao Han】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】 National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) is actively promoting multicultural education and sustainable urban exchange. Last Saturday (the 1st), the Office of International Affairs led international students from Indonesia and Vietnam to participate in the "2025 Southern Culture Carnival". They connected with the local community through hometown cuisine and cultural displays, showcasing the practical results of international education and the charm of diverse cultures, which attracted an enthusiastic response from the public.Since the inaugural "Southern Culture Carnival" in 2022, NUK faculty and students have actively participated every year without fail. They continuously showcase the campus's diverse energy through creative booths and cultural performances, becoming an important bridge connecting the campus and urban culture. The event is jointly hosted by the Kaohsiung City Government, the Kaohsiung Friends of Indonesia Association, and the Kaohsiung Little Southeast Asia Community, and has become a major annual cultural event in the South.Hsing-Ju Lin, Dean of the Office of International Affairs at the NUK, stated that the carnival allows international students to step out of the campus and integrate into the local community. This not only enables them to showcase their own culture but also provides a highly practical experience in international education by letting them learn about activity planning and cross-cultural communication. She thanked the student clubs and the faculty and staff team for their commitment, which helped the university's multicultural spirit be seen and affirmed by more people.This year, the Office of International Affairs led two student associations from Indonesia and Vietnam to set up two major booths. They offered authentic local food such as Vietnamese spring rolls, Indonesian fried noodles, and fried corn fritters, which were extremely popular and fragrant. Students expressed that despite the busy preparation process, personally cooking hometown food and introducing their culture to citizens was both challenging and full of accomplishment. The venue saw a continuous stream of people, and all the food was sold out before closing, demonstrating the enthusiasm and teamwork spirit of the international students.The participation of NUK faculty and students this time not only deepens the connection between international students and the community but also embodies the university's educational philosophy of promoting "co-prosperity with the local area". In the future, the university will continue to promote multicultural experiences and international exchange, encouraging students to step out of their comfort zone, actively connect with the local community, and become a cultural bridge between Taiwan and the world. This action simultaneously implements 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, demonstrating the drive to promote sustainable international education.#SDG4 #SDG11 #SDG17 @Office of International Affairs &Event
NUK Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures Partners with University of Aberdeen LLMVC to Sign Dual Degree Agreement
【Text and Photos: Ou Hsin-Yun, Chair of the Department of WesternLanguages and Literature; Edited: Public Affairs Section】【Translated with the assistance of Google Gemini】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】2025-11-28 The Department of Foreign Languages and Literatures (DFLL) at National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) today announced the formal signing of a dual degree cooperation agreement with the School of Language, Literature, Music and Visual Culture (LLMVC) at the University of Aberdeen, UK. Applications will open starting in the 114th academic year. The cooperation scheme encompasses the "3+1," "3.5+1," and "4+1" models, allowing DFLL students, upon completing their undergraduate studies, to pursue advanced studies in the UK and obtain a Master’s degree from Aberdeen within one year. This collaboration forges a cross-national learning pathway that combines an international perspective with professional depth.Established in 1495, the University of Aberdeen is one of the oldest and most research-intensive academic institutions in the UK. The areas of cooperation cover courses related to linguistics, literature, intercultural communication, and business. Students can select diverse courses according to their personal aspirations and career plans, thereby strengthening their English application abilities and enhancing their competitiveness in the international workplace.Chair of the DFLL, Ou Hsin-Yun, stated that the signing of this dual degree agreement is a significant step in the department's internationalization efforts. The DFLL is long dedicated to cultivating professionals with foreign language proficiency, humanistic literacy, and cultural understanding. The partnership with the University of Aberdeen will not only expand opportunities for students' overseas advanced studies and academic exploration but will also deepen research exchange and faculty/student interaction between the two institutions, continuously strengthening the depth and breadth of cross-national cooperation.This cooperation project was primarily promoted by Associate Professor Wang Sung-Lan of the DFLL. To encourage outstanding students to pursue advanced studies in the UK, the University of Aberdeen offers scholarships with up to a 23% tuition fee reduction or a £8,000 grant, effectively reducing the financial burden of studying abroad. Through the dual degree model, it is hoped that students will be supported to step onto the international stage with a broader perspective, embodying NUK's educational philosophy of "Rooted Locally, Global in View."The DFLL stated that the application timeline, eligibility requirements, curriculum information, and scholarship details for the dual degree program will be announced on the department's website and will be dynamically adjusted according to the cooperation progress between the two parties. For related questions, please contact the department office (E-mail: dowell@nuk.edu.tw).#SDG4 #SDG17 @Department of WesternLanguages and Literature&Event
