SDGs永續行動網
行動與實踐
NUK Boosts Global Visibility at Vietnam Recruitment Event, Highlighting Semiconductor and AI Programs
2026-07-08 On July 4, the Office of International Affairs at the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) traveled to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, to participate in a major student recruitment and consultation event. The delegation presented NUK's educational highlights, diverse learning resources, and academic department developments. Through a Vietnamese-version promotional video and interactive experiences, the event attracted over 300 students for in-person exchanges. Fields such as Law, Semiconductors, Artificial Intelligence, and the "1+4" International Foundation Program for undergraduate studies received the most attention, showcasing NUK's continuous efforts to expand international educational exchanges and raise its overseas visibility.Lin Hsing-Ru, Dean of International Affairs, stated that participating in this Vietnamese recruitment event not only enhanced NUK's visibility locally but also allowed the university to gain a deeper understanding of Vietnamese students' higher education needs. NUK will continue to refine its diverse admission schemes and curriculum planning to provide a learning environment that better meets international students' requirements, attracting more outstanding talent to pursue their studies in Taiwan and at NUK.Hui-Ting Huang and Bui Thi Lam Hong represented NUK in Vietnam, collaborating to introduce academic department features, admission pathways, and the "1+4" International Foundation Program to students and parents.Huang noted that the number of inquiries regarding semiconductor- and sports/health/leisure-related departments grew significantly compared to previous years. Taking this opportunity, the team introduced NUK's joint programs partnered with major electronics corporations—such as TSMC, Zhending Technology, Walton Advanced Engineering, and ASE Group. They also highlighted NUK's strategic location at the core of Southern Taiwan's Semiconductor S-Corridor, featuring a complete industry cluster and convenient transportation, helping students understand the environment for studying in Kaohsiung and transitioning into industry careers. Additionally, students most frequently inquired about Chinese language proficiency thresholds for the "1+4" International Foundation Program, semiconductor-related departments, and the Department of Law, as well as on-campus housing information.Bui Thi Lam Hong, a native of Vietnam, communicated with students and parents in her mother tongue while assisting with promotional displays and on-site consultations. After watching the Vietnamese-version promotional video My Days at NUK, many students voluntarily stayed to ask about course details and application procedures, further enriching on-site interaction and engagement.To shorten the distance with students, NUK designed an interactive experience integrated with the Vietnamese promotional video. Students could scan a QR Code to watch the video and give it a "like," qualifying them to join a card-drawing game for a chance to win a "NUK Bear" plush toy. Participants who did not win the grand prize could still redeem limited-edition souvenirs by completing assigned tasks on the cards. This edutainment design attracted enthusiastic participation and created a lively atmosphere, culminating in the giveaway of two NUK Bear plush toys as a highlight of the event.The "Vietnam Admissions Counseling Day" was held at Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, co-hosted by Vietnam's Ministry of Education and Training and the Tuổi Trẻ newspaper, serving as one of the region's major annual higher education advisement platforms. The Education Division of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Ho Chi Minh City invited 16 Taiwanese higher education institutions to join the education fair, providing first-hand information to students interested in studying in Taiwan.#SDG4 #SDG17 @Office of International Affairs &Events
NUK Shows Two Biomedical Innovations at BIO Asia–Taiwan 2026, Demonstrating the R&D Achievements
2026-07-17 Two research teams from the Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering (CME) at the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK), led by Distinguished Professors Wen-Fu Ho and Yi-Chang Chung, were recently invited to exhibit at "BIO Asia–Taiwan 2026." They showcased two innovative technologies—"High-Performance Medical Implant Materials" and a "Nanomedicine Delivery Platform"—demonstrating NUK's robust research and development capabilities in biomedical materials, smart healthcare, and medical technology.NUK's Industry-Academia Incubator Center under the Office of Research and Development coordinated the exhibition, bringing the two university research teams to present their flagship R&D achievements at Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center Hall 1 from July 16 to 19.Chin-Fu Kuo, Director of NUK's Industry-Academia Incubator Center, stated that NUK has long been deeply involved in biomedical materials, biotechnology, and healthcare. Through industry-academia collaboration, technology transfer, and incubation mechanisms, NUK actively helps turn campus research achievements into marketable applications. He expressed hope that participating in this exhibition will help build more technical partnerships and commercialization opportunities with domestic and international enterprises, promoting the practical application of scientific research.Distinguished Professor Wen-Fu Ho's team exhibited "Metastable β-type Titanium-Rich Medium-Entropy Alloy and Its Preparation Method," successfully developing a next-generation biomedical implant material featuring high strength, low elastic modulus, high resilience, and exceptional corrosion resistance. Compared to traditional medical implant materials such as 316L stainless steel, Co-Cr-Mo, and Ti-6Al-4V, this technology effectively minimizes the stress shielding effect and the risk of metal ion release after implantation, significantly enhancing the stability and lifespan of implants. The material achieves a yield strength exceeding 1,100 MPa and an elastic modulus below 110 GPa in its as-cast state without requiring additional heat treatment, delivering superior mechanical properties and biocompatibility while reducing manufacturing costs.The medium-entropy alloy developed by Ho's team outperforms many existing biomedical alloys in terms of resilience while maintaining a lower elastic modulus closer to the mechanical properties of human bone. This reduces mechanical mismatch between implants and bone, offering broad future application potential in high-end medical devices such as artificial joints, femoral stems, and various orthopedic implants, thereby extending implant lifespan and improving patients' post-operative quality of life.Distinguished Professor Yi-Chang Chung's team presented their independently developed "Low-Temperature Self-Assembled Nano-Encapsulation Platform and Applications." Overcoming the limitations of traditional nanocarriers that rely on organic solvents, high-pressure homogenization, or high-temperature processes, this platform utilizes NUK's proprietary green phase-transition technology. Nano-encapsulation can be completed at room temperature, dramatically reducing process energy consumption while preserving the stability of active ingredients. The platform can encapsulate hydrophilic, hydrophobic, and biomolecular active ingredients, with layer-by-layer surface modification to substantially improve stability, even allowing for customized and adjustable nano-concentrates. Designed with a particle size of approximately 100 nanometers, these nanocarriers can be formulated into sustained-release transdermal components, improving skin absorption efficiency and promoting cellular penetration with distinct application advantages in localized delivery, sustained release, and precision medicine.Currently, this technology has been successfully applied to the development of products including nano-astaxanthin, nano-curcumin, nano-plant extracts, nano-vitamins, and nano-herbal ointments. It can be formulated into various dosage forms such as serums, lotions, and ointments according to different needs. Looking ahead, it is expected to find broad application across biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, health supplements, medical cosmetics, and the high-value processing of natural plant extracts, providing safer and more efficient delivery solutions for drugs and active ingredients.#SDG3 #SDG9 #SDG12 #SDG17 @Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering @Industry-Academia Incubator Center, Office of Research and Development &Events
NUK Holds 23rd Commencement: President Chen Graduates to Embrace Change, Take Responsibility, and Create Impact
2026-06-06The National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) held its 23rd Commencement Ceremony today. President Chen Chi-jen encouraged graduates to maintain a passion for lifelong learning and the courage to explore the unknown in an era defined by rapid AI development, continuous industrial transformation, and intensifying global environmental changes. He inspired them to face future challenges with three core expectations: "Embrace Change," "Take Responsibility," and "Create Impact."This year’s ceremony kicked off with an innovative tech-driven opening show. Closely aligning with digital transformation trends, President Chen made a surprise appearance in a virtual metaverse campus as a digital avatar. Designed and organized by a team led by Wang Cheng-hung, Director of the Digital Content Research Center, the avatar engaged in a humorous, cross-spatial dialogue with the physical master of ceremonies on stage. This integration of virtual and real elements showcased the university's tech-savvy edge and approachable spirit, instantly energizing the crowd.In his address, President Chen noted that this year marks the 26th anniversary of NUK’s founding. In recent years, NUK has consistently ranked first among medium-sized universities in Cheers magazine's "Companies' Favorite University Graduates" survey, demonstrating strong achievements in sustainable development, industry-academia collaboration, talent cultivation, and international exchange. He emphasized that the diploma the graduates hold today represents not just an academic credential, but a validation from a university highly recognized by both enterprises and society.Elaborating on his three expectations, President Chen pointed out that AI and technological innovations are reshaping the world at an unprecedented pace. "The future does not belong to the most perfect, but to those who are willing to learn and keep growing," he said. He urged students to respond to societal needs with their expertise, face life's challenges with a sense of responsibility, and exert a positive influence to make society a better place. He emphasized, "Professional competence determines how fast you can go, but a sense of responsibility determines how far you can go. A truly valuable life is measured not by how much you gain, but by how much you give."Lin Tian-yu, General Manager of the Energy Business Group at AUO Corporation, was invited as the commencement speaker. Sharing that he has children of similar age to the graduates, Lin expressed deep empathy for the younger generation's mix of excitement and anxiety upon graduation. Looking back on his 30-year career—which spanned transitions from the tech industry to the renewable energy sector—he candidly admitted that life rarely goes according to plan. Instead, career development is akin to a navigation system constantly recalculating routes, where paths once thought to be wrong turns often become vital nutrients for future growth.Facing a rapidly changing era, Lin pointed out that from the rise of the internet and smartphones to the boom of artificial intelligence, the world is changing faster than ever. Therefore, the most crucial ability is not predicting the future, but cultivating the courage and resilience to adapt to change. He encouraged graduates to stay optimistic, embrace lifelong learning, and prioritize mental health and social responsibility. He urged them to pursue personal achievements while continuing to create a positive impact on society, urging them to dream big and avoid setting early limits on themselves.Li Zong-ming, Chairman of the NUK Alumni Association, also offered his words of encouragement, noting that graduation marks both a new chapter in life and the moment they officially become NUK alumni. He reminded graduates that a diploma proves not just four years of academic results, but the ability to learn continuously and solve problems. In the era of AI, he emphasized the importance of developing independent thinking, critical information assessment, curiosity, a passion for learning, and a kind heart.Representing the graduating class, Hsu Hsiao-chiao from the Department of East Asian Languages and Literature took her peers on a nostalgic journey through their four years on campus. From riding bicycles across campus to find classrooms as freshmen, to witnessing the completion of the Activity Center, the opening of Louisa Coffee on campus, and making memories at the lawn music festivals and Christmas markets, every moment has become a cherished memory. She compared growth to a video game, viewing their college years as a process of accumulating skills and experience points. Reassuring her peers that every attempt and challenge would fuel their future, she encouraged them to trust their choices and step into the next phase of life with courage and confidence.The ceremony also featured a rich international atmosphere. The Office of International Affairs welcomed over 60 international parents who traveled to Taiwan to witness their children's graduation. Notably, Tan Jia Ni, an Indonesian student graduating from the Department of Finance, was awarded the prestigious "Chairperson's Award of the Overseas Community Affairs Council," an honor given to only 50 students across Taiwan, highlighting the outstanding academic and extracurricular achievements of NUK's international students.The commencement concluded with the turning of the tassels, the conferring of degrees, and the presentation of awards to outstanding graduates. Witnessed by faculty, parents, and friends, the event joyfully celebrated the graduates as they completed a major milestone in their lives.National University of Kaohsiung 23rd Commencement Video Resources：National University of Kaohsiung 23rd Commencement Video ResourcesPresident Lai Ching Te’s Graduation Message and Expectations：https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sOftdQcnGBGrTvoBWRcxDba7fMm7HFnr/view23rd Commencement Highlights Video Summary：https://youtu.be/kl0_YzcZVMI#SDG4 #SDG8#SDG9#SDG10#SDG13@Division of Student Affairs&Event
NUK Holds 23rd Commencement: President Chen Chi-jen Urges Graduates to Embrace Change, Take Responsibility, and Create Impact
【Translated with the assistance of Google Gemini】【United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Promotion Series】2026-06-06The National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) held its 23rd Commencement Ceremony today. President Chen Chi-jen encouraged graduates to maintain a passion for lifelong learning and the courage to explore the unknown in an era defined by rapid AI development, continuous industrial transformation, and intensifying global environmental changes. He inspired them to face future challenges with three core expectations: "Embrace Change," "Take Responsibility," and "Create Impact."This year’s ceremony kicked off with an innovative tech-driven opening show. Closely aligning with digital transformation trends, President Chen made a surprise appearance in a virtual metaverse campus as a digital avatar. Designed and organized by a team led by Wang Cheng-hung, Director of the Digital Content Research Center, the avatar engaged in a humorous, cross-spatial dialogue with the physical master of ceremonies on stage. This integration of virtual and real elements showcased the university's tech-savvy edge and approachable spirit, instantly energizing the crowd.In his address, President Chen noted that this year marks the 26th anniversary of NUK’s founding. In recent years, NUK has consistently ranked first among medium-sized universities in Cheers magazine's "Companies' Favorite University Graduates" survey, demonstrating strong achievements in sustainable development, industry-academia collaboration, talent cultivation, and international exchange. He emphasized that the diploma the graduates hold today represents not just an academic credential, but a validation from a university highly recognized by both enterprises and society.Elaborating on his three expectations, President Chen pointed out that AI and technological innovations are reshaping the world at an unprecedented pace. "The future does not belong to the most perfect, but to those who are willing to learn and keep growing," he said. He urged students to respond to societal needs with their expertise, face life's challenges with a sense of responsibility, and exert a positive influence to make society a better place. He emphasized, "Professional competence determines how fast you can go, but a sense of responsibility determines how far you can go. A truly valuable life is measured not by how much you gain, but by how much you give."Lin Tian-yu, General Manager of the Energy Business Group at AUO Corporation, was invited as the commencement speaker. Sharing that he has children of similar age to the graduates, Lin expressed deep empathy for the younger generation's mix of excitement and anxiety upon graduation. Looking back on his 30-year career—which spanned transitions from the tech industry to the renewable energy sector—he candidly admitted that life rarely goes according to plan. Instead, career development is akin to a navigation system constantly recalculating routes, where paths once thought to be wrong turns often become vital nutrients for future growth.Facing a rapidly changing era, Lin pointed out that from the rise of the internet and smartphones to the boom of artificial intelligence, the world is changing faster than ever. Therefore, the most crucial ability is not predicting the future, but cultivating the courage and resilience to adapt to change. He encouraged graduates to stay optimistic, embrace lifelong learning, and prioritize mental health and social responsibility. He urged them to pursue personal achievements while continuing to create a positive impact on society, urging them to dream big and avoid setting early limits on themselves.Li Zong-ming, Chairman of the NUK Alumni Association, also offered his words of encouragement, noting that graduation marks both a new chapter in life and the moment they officially become NUK alumni. He reminded graduates that a diploma proves not just four years of academic results, but the ability to learn continuously and solve problems. In the era of AI, he emphasized the importance of developing independent thinking, critical information assessment, curiosity, a passion for learning, and a kind heart.Representing the graduating class, Hsu Hsiao-chiao from the Department of East Asian Languages and Literature took her peers on a nostalgic journey through their four years on campus. From riding bicycles across campus to find classrooms as freshmen, to witnessing the completion of the Activity Center, the opening of Louisa Coffee on campus, and making memories at the lawn music festivals and Christmas markets, every moment has become a cherished memory. She compared growth to a video game, viewing their college years as a process of accumulating skills and experience points. Reassuring her peers that every attempt and challenge would fuel their future, she encouraged them to trust their choices and step into the next phase of life with courage and confidence.The ceremony also featured a rich international atmosphere. The Office of International Affairs welcomed over 60 international parents who traveled to Taiwan to witness their children's graduation. Notably, Tan Jia Ni, an Indonesian student graduating from the Department of Finance, was awarded the prestigious "Chairperson's Award of the Overseas Community Affairs Council," an honor given to only 50 students across Taiwan, highlighting the outstanding academic and extracurricular achievements of NUK's international students.The commencement concluded with the turning of the tassels, the conferring of degrees, and the presentation of awards to outstanding graduates. Witnessed by faculty, parents, and friends, the event joyfully celebrated the graduates as they completed a major milestone in their lives.National University of Kaohsiung 23rd Commencement Video Resources：National University of Kaohsiung 23rd Commencement Video ResourcesPresident Lai Ching Te’s Graduation Message and Expectations：https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sOftdQcnGBGrTvoBWRcxDba7fMm7HFnr/view23rd Commencement Highlights Video Summary：https://youtu.be/kl0_YzcZVMI#SDG4 #SDG8#SDG9#SDG10#SDG13@Division of Student Affairs&Event
Kumamoto City Board of Education Delegation Visits NUK to Deepen Taiwan-Japan Educational Exchange and Advance VR and ICT Education Cooperation
2026-05-26In recent years, the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) has actively promoted the application of VR (Virtual Reality) and ICT (Information and Communications Technology) in education, alongside expanding international educational exchanges. These efforts attracted a high-level delegation from Japan, led by Yoji Endo, Superintendent of the Kumamoto City Board of Education, who visited NUK from May 21 to 22. In addition to touring the campus and specialized teaching facilities, the delegation exchanged insights on Taiwan-Japan educational cooperation, international talent cultivation, and metaverse curricula. NUK President Chi-Ren Chen is scheduled to lead a reciprocal delegation to Kumamoto at the end of June to further drive collaborative VR teaching and ICT education initiatives.During the visit, NUK President Chi-Ren Chen officially received the delegation, accompanied by Vice President for Administrative Affairs Hsing-Hao Wu, OIA Oveseas Director Hsing-Ju Lin, and Library and Information Center Director Cheng-Hung Wang. The two sides engaged in extensive discussions regarding higher education trends, global talent cultivation, regional educational partnerships, and future exchange frameworks.President Chen noted that NUK has long prioritized international mobility and cross-border collaboration, actively broadening its partnerships with Japanese schools and educational institutions at all levels. "NUK maintains a deep bond with Kaohsiung City, working hand-in-hand with the local government across education, urban development, and local governance," President Chen stated. "We look forward to forging closer ties with Kumamoto City in the realms of education, culture, and technology to jointly nurture a new generation of talent with global perspectives."Showcasing Breakthroughs in Educational TechnologyAnother core focus of the visit was highlighting NUK’s recent achievements in VR and ICT educational applications. Dr. Cheng-Hung Wang, Director of the Library and Information Center, explained that the NUK team is currently deploying a VR instructional system and an AI-driven personalized learning platform, having already collaborated with numerous schools to expand educational technology deployment. The core platforms have successfully secured patents in Taiwan and the United States, with patent applications currently pending in Japan and Vietnam. To date, the equipment and systems are utilized by over 200 schools across Taiwan.Superintendent Yoji Endo mentioned that he had previously learned about NUK’s strides in educational technology and international exchange through Dr. Wang, but visiting the campus in person left an even deeper impression. He remarked that moving forward, cooperation should expand beyond student exchanges to encompass faculty, educational administrators, and partnerships between boards of education, thereby elevating Taiwan-Japan educational ties.Interdisciplinary Departmental Tours and Cultural CollectionsThe delegation also toured the College of Humanities and Social Sciences to observe NUK’s achievements in language pedagogy, innovative design, and interdisciplinary learning. Dr. Fan-Shik Oh, Chair of the Department of East Asian Languages and Literature, introduced the department's specialized Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese cultural classrooms, showcasing their achievements in East Asian language instruction and cross-cultural studies. Dr. Chun-Yi Weng, Chair of the Department of Crafts and Creative Design, guided the visitors through the department's craft design studios, cultural innovation spaces, and hands-on teaching facilities, showcasing a gallery of student artwork and design portfolios. Both parties explored future opportunities for student exchange and collaboration.Beyond departmental visits, the delegation toured the NUK Library and Information Center, visiting the dedicated newspaper clipping archive of the Eing-Chie Collection and the Soka Gakkai Daisaku Ikeda Research Area to view precious Japanese-language archives. The newspaper clippings in the Eing-Chie Collection were meticulously gathered and organized by NUK Emeritus Professor Eing-Chie Chiang during his years in Japan, spanning fields such as the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and medicine, possessing significant research and archival value. The delegation highly commended NUK's dedication to preserving Japanese literature and advancing Japanese cultural studies. Superintendent Endo also expressed an intention to donate his personal publications to the NUK Library in the future to continually enrich its Japanese educational resources.Looking Ahead: Launching the Taiwan-Japan Metaverse ClassroomNUK is slated to visit the Kumamoto City Education Center and Kumamoto Municipal Johoku Elementary School at the end of June. The trip will feature the inaugural Taiwan-Japan Metaverse collaborative course, where students from Kaohsiung and Kumamoto will engage in cross-border interactions via VR and online platforms. The itinerary also includes a visit to Kumamoto University to steadily broaden the Taiwan-Japan ICT education cooperation network.#SDG4 #SDG17@Office of International Affairs &Event
NUK Hosts 3rd International Conference on Middle East and Africa: Dialogue on Crisis, Governance, and Reconstruction Under a Shifting Global Order
2026-05-08 From conflicts in the Middle East and the Red Sea crisis to Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance, global supply chains, and semiconductor diplomacy, the current international landscape is shifting rapidly, with the impacts of regional conflicts long transcending geographical boundaries. On May 8, 2026, the Department of Government and Law at the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) hosted the 3rd International Conference on Middle East and Africa. Centered around the theme "Embedded Crisis and Reconstruction: Governance in the Middle East and Africa within the Global Order," the conference gathered prominent domestic and international scholars at NUK to explore governance challenges and reconstruction issues through a global lens.NUK President Chi-Jen Chen noted in his opening remarks that regional conflicts and geopolitical competition in today's international arena are no longer confined to a single nation or territory. For instance, the situation in Iran and the maritime security of the Strait of Hormuz directly disrupt global energy supplies and international market stability. Similarly, from the reconstruction of Gaza and the conflict in Sudan to social governance across Africa, these issues demonstrate that global governance is facing highly complex and interconnected challenges. He emphasized that beyond conducting research and cultivating talent, universities must serve as platforms for public dialogue, responding to critical global issues through international academic exchange.Keynote Insights on the Global South and Shifting StructuresThe keynote speeches featured Dr. Chen-ShenYen, Adjunct Research Fellow at the Institute of International Relations, National Chengchi University (NCCU), and Dr. David Winter, Emeritus Professor at the University of Hertfordshire, UK. Dr. Yen analyzed the positions of the Middle East and Africa within global political and economic frameworks through the prisms of the Global South, post-colonial development, resource dependency, and the international order. Citing African debt, resource-based economies, the international financial system, and geopolitics, he illustrated how regional governance is steered by global structural dynamics, further highlighting the modern phenomenon of "embedded crises."Interdisciplinary Research: Technology, Security, and DiplomacyThe paper presentations encompassed a wide array of vital contemporary issues in the Middle East and Africa, including:Iran's strategic culture and political narratives.The geopolitics of the Red Sea and Somaliland.US-China competition and dependency dynamics in Africa.AI governance, digital authoritarianism, surveillance, and national security.Global South governance and the role of Taiwan's semiconductor diplomacy amidst situations in South Africa.These presentations demonstrated how Middle Eastern and African studies have increasingly intersected with interdisciplinary fields like technological governance, global supply chains, international security, and diplomatic strategy.Notably, Dr. Shun-Wen Wang, Professor of the NUK Department of Government and Law, presented his paper during the morning session: "Strategic Culture under Threat: Iran’s Use-of-Force Narratives and the Adjustment of Strategic Culture after the Gaza War." Utilizing strategic culture and narrative analysis, the study explores Iran's political responses and nationalistic shifts under external pressures following the Gaza War. The afternoon roundtable forum was moderated by Dr. Wen-Sheng Chen, Professor of the Department of Government and Law, who led a panel of local and foreign scholars in mapping out future challenges and research directions for Middle Eastern and African studies in a changing global order.Collaborative Network and Deepening Academic ExchangeThe closing ceremony was chaired by Dr. Wu-Lung Yang, Chair of the NUK Department of Government and Law, with Yong-Bo Chen, Deputy Director-General of the Department of West Asian and African Affairs under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), joining the dialogue. Participating scholars engaged in continuous discussions on regional conflicts, reconstruction governance, the Global South, and international cooperation, showcasing the deepening academic energy and international exchange networks of Taiwan's Middle East and Africa research community.The conference was organized by the NUK Department of Government and Law in collaboration with the NUK College of Law, the College of International Affairs at NCCU, the Institute of Ethnology at Academia Sinica, and National Quemoy University. It was guided and supported by the Department of Higher Education of the Ministry of Education (MOE), the Department of West Asian and African Affairs of MOFA, and the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, continuing to foster cross-institutional and interdisciplinary academic exchange.#SDG4 #SDG16 #SDG17 @Department of Government and Law &Activities
NUK Transfers Technology to Virbac: Research Achievements Enter the Global Animal Health Market
2026-04-30 The National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) and Virbac, the world's sixth-largest animal health company headquartered in France, held a formal ceremony to sign a technology transfer agreement. The collaboration focuses on the "ASK-K1 Cell Line" developed by the research team led by Professor Chiu-Ming Wen from the Department of Life Sciences. This signing marks the transition of academic research from the laboratory to industrial application, expanding its reach into the global animal health market.NUK and Virbac have maintained a collaborative relationship since 2018. Over the past seven years, the partnership has yielded six successful industry-academia projects, steadily deepening the research energy and application links in the field of animal biotechnology. The completion of this technology transfer represents a significant milestone, showcasing NUK's concrete achievements in promoting the industrialization of academic results and fostering international connections.Dr. Chin-Fu Kuo, Director of the Industry-Academia Collaboration and Incubation Center, stated that long-term cooperation with international enterprises not only enhances the practical value of research but also ensures that academic work remains closely aligned with industry needs. This synergy further cultivates talent with interdisciplinary and international perspectives. He emphasized that this transfer is not merely the realization of a single research project but a testament to the university's ongoing commitment to deepening industry-academia and international cooperation.The core technology of this transfer, the "ASK-K1 Cell Line," is the result of Professor Chiu-Ming Wen’s extensive research in animal cell culture and fish diseases. The cell line enables the highly efficient production of cold-water fish viruses, holding immense potential for the development of aquatic animal vaccines and disease prevention.Jules Minke, Biological R&D Director of the Virbac Group, noted that the years of cooperation have built a solid foundation of trust. He remarked that NUK’s research capabilities in animal biotechnology are highly competitive on an international scale. Looking ahead, Virbac will continue to drive the commercial application of this technology and further strengthen its R&D partnership with NUK to advance the animal vaccine industry together.#SDG9 #SDG14 #SDG17 @Industry-Academia Collaboration and Incubation Center @ Department of Life Sciences #Event
NUK College of Management Signs Dual Degree Agreement with Loughborough Business School to Launch 1+1 and 4+1 Programs
On April 15, 2026, the College of Management at the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) officially signed a dual degree cooperation agreement with the Loughborough Business School (LBS) at Loughborough University, UK. The partnership introduces "1+1 Dual Master’s" and "4+1 Bachelor-to-Master" degree tracks. The agreement was signed by Dr. I-Hsiang Huang, Dean of the NUK College of Management, with Dr. Ali Choudhary, Head of the Economics Group at LBS, attending the ceremony as the representative of the LBS Dean. This collaboration opens diverse pathways for advanced studies and international development, marking a significant step forward in academic cooperation between the two institutions.Dr. I-Hsiang Huang, Dean of the NUK College of Management, noted that Dr. Ali Choudhary’s visit to Taiwan underscores the high level of importance both parties place on this partnership. "Loughborough University is a benchmark research-oriented institution in the UK. Its Business School holds the prestigious 'Triple Crown' accreditation—AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA—affirming its excellence in teaching and research," Dean Huang stated. He emphasized that this collaboration will not only enhance students' international mobility but also deepen exchange in business management education, providing a vital engine for the college's international development.Founded in 1909, Loughborough University consistently performs exceptionally in both UK and international rankings. It is world-renowned for its sports-related subjects; notably, during the 2024 Paris Olympics, its students and alumni secured 35 medals for Great Britain (11 gold, 10 silver, and 14 bronze). The Business School ranks among the top 10 in the UK in fields such as Business Administration, Finance, Marketing, and Supply Chain Management, emphasizing a balance between theory and practice to cultivate globally competitive talent.The partnership was facilitated by Associate Professor I-Hui Cheng from the NUK Department of Applied Economics. The collaboration offers two primary models:"1+1" Dual Master’s Degree: Students complete part of their curriculum at NUK before transitioning to Loughborough to finish their Master’s studies."4+1" Bachelor-to-Master Program: This pathway is also open to students from other departments, offering more opportunities to pivot into advanced business and management tracks.The agreement between NUK and LBS features a flexible structural design and offers generous scholarships through the dual degree mechanism. This allows students to efficiently bridge their international learning journey according to their personal career goals, significantly enhancing their employment competitiveness in the global market.Registration and consultations for this program are now open for the current academic year. For details regarding application timelines, eligibility, program information, and scholarships, please contact Associate Professor I-Hui Cheng (Email: icheng@nuk.edu.tw). Further updates will be announced as the cooperation mechanism evolves.#SDG4 #SDG8 #SDG17 @College of Management &Event
Bidding Farewell to an Icon, Welcoming New Life: National University of Kaohsiung Chronicles Sustainability and Life Education through Campus Landscapes
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
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
