SDGs永續行動網
行動與實踐
Associate Professor Trần Thị Lan of the Department of East Asian Languages and Literature Presents the Outcomes of the Faculty-Student Cross-Cultural Exchange Visit to Vietnam.
【Text and Photos by: Trần Thị Lan, Associate Professor of the Department of East Asian Languages and Literature and Director of the Center for Vietnamese Studies; Edited by: Public Affairs Section】【Translator：Siou-Yao Han】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】 Associate Professor Trần Thị Lan of the Department of East Asian Languages and Literature and Director of the Center for Vietnamese Studies at the National University of Kaohsiung presented the outcomes of an international exchange today (the 21st). During the summer vacation, she led students to the Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City (IUH) in Vietnam to participate in the "New Breeze 2025 " International Student Festival. They engaged in exchanges with faculty and students from various countries, including Taiwan, Vietnam, Japan, and South Korea, showcasing the achievements of both universities in promoting international education and cultural cooperation.Trần Thị Lan stated that "New Breeze 2025" was held in Ho Chi Minh City from August 25th to 28th, co-hosted by the NUK and IUH. It aimed to cultivate students' cross-cultural understanding and communication skills through cultural experiences and language practice. The event featured diverse activities, including the "Hearts without Borders" rural experience, the "Taste & Culture" cultural market, and the "Reaching the World" international forum. Youths from different countries planned and collaborated in groups; the process, from event conception to on-site execution, was student-led, demonstrating a high level of creativity and a spirit of international collaboration.During the 4-day trip, the team visited the Vinh Loc Community in Ho Chi Minh City, participating in local public welfare and educational services to gain firsthand understanding of rural Vietnamese life and cultural heritage. Following this, a cultural market was held on campus, promoting multicultural exchange through experiences like calligraphy, tea ceremony, handicrafts, and environmentally-friendly creations. The international forum, themed "Youth and a Sustainable Future," featured dialogues with scholars from Taiwan, Japan, and Vietnam. They discussed educational cooperation, exchange opportunities, and the role of youth, allowing participating students to broaden their international perspectives through practical experience and critical thinking.Trần Thị Lan pointed out that this cross-national camp is an extension of the long-term cooperation between the two universities and a milestone in translating their MOU into concrete action. She emphasized that students not only practiced language but also cultivated international literacy (global competence) through the process of planning, communication, and cultural adaptation. "Seeing students actively express themselves, coordinate, and cooperate with partners from various countries was the most meaningful learning outcome," she said. She also noted that IUH faculty and students deepened their understanding of Taiwanese higher education through this event. Both parties will continue to expand the scope of their exchange, planning dual-degree programs and short-term study programs to further deepen international educational cooperation.#SDG4 #SDG17 @Department of East Asian Languages and Literature &Activities
NUK College of Management and University of Dundee School of Business Sign Dual Master’s Degree Program to Boost Students' International Competitiveness
【Text: Cheng Yi-Hui, Associate Professor, Department of Applied Economics; Edited: Public Affairs Division】【Translated with the assistance of Google Gemini】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】 The College of Management (COM) at National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) today announced the formal signing of a dual master’s degree cooperation agreement with the School of Business at the University of Dundee, UK. Starting from this academic year, COM master's students can choose the "1+1" or "1.5+0.5" model under the cooperation scheme. They will be able to complete the required coursework and reviews from both institutions within two years, earning master's degrees from both NUK’s College of Management and the University of Dundee’s School of Business, thereby building a cross-national learning pathway with an international perspective and practical skills.Dean I-Hsiang Huang of NUK's College of Management stated that this signing is a significant milestone for the College in promoting internationalization and strengthening employability. The College has long been committed to cultivating management professionals with both expertise and a global outlook. This collaboration will further expand the international platform for students, allowing them to deepen their learning and broaden their horizons in a diverse cultural and academic environment. Dean Huang pointed out that the institutionalized cooperation with the University of Dundee School of Business will not only enhance the College's teaching and research capacity but also help attract more outstanding students, forming a virtuous cycle and injecting new momentum into the College's international development.Dean Huang further noted that the University of Dundee, established over 140 years ago, is a representative research-intensive university in Scotland, with outstanding performance in life sciences, medicine, and art and design, and its research in business, law, and engineering is highly regarded. The university is known for its rigorous academic atmosphere and emphasis on practical application. Nobel laureate in Economics, Ronald Coase, once taught there, providing students with a learning environment that combines theoretical depth and an international perspective. The collaboration with the University of Dundee holds significant symbolic meaning for the College's internationalization and the interdisciplinary development of its faculty and students.This cooperation project was primarily planned and promoted by Associate Professor Cheng Yi-Hui from the Department of Applied Economics at the College of Management. Dr. Cheng highlighted that this dual master's degree program adopts three major principles: "common curriculum framework, mutual credit recognition, and flexible study models." Students can choose between the "1+1" or "1.5+0.5" schemes. Upon completion of coursework at both NUK and the University of Dundee School of Business, they will receive master's degrees from both universities. Students who choose the "1.5+0.5" scheme will study at the University of Dundee for approximately 6 to 8 months and will only pay 50% of the tuition fee for international students, substantially reducing the financial burden of overseas study.Dr. Cheng explained that the University of Dundee offers scholarships with up to a 25% tuition fee reduction to encourage outstanding students to pursue advanced studies. Both sides have also established quality management mechanisms for curriculum design, assessment standards, and research ethics, while simultaneously planning faculty exchange and corporate internship mechanisms. In addition to covering core management fields, the curriculum incorporates topics such as sustainable development, ESG governance, and green supply chains, cultivating students with both an international perspective and practical abilities.Regarding student support, the College of Management and the Office of International Affairs will provide comprehensive pre-departure and in-study counseling services, including language and academic preparation, visa and accommodation consultation, credit recognition, and career guidance, to help students smoothly transition into overseas study and their careers upon return. This program also aligns with NUK’s strategies for sustainable governance and internationalization, demonstrating the College's determination to implement Sustainable Development Goals through educational action.The College of Management stated that applications of interest and consultation for this cooperation project are open starting this academic year. Relevant application timelines, eligibility criteria, program information, and scholarship details will be uniformly announced by the College of Management. Interested parties may contact Associate Professor Cheng Yi-Hui of the Department of Applied Economics (E-mail: icheng@nuk.edu.tw). Any outstanding matters will be dynamically adjusted according to the cooperation mechanism between the two parties, and subsequent information will be released promptly.#SDG4 #SDG8 #SDG17 @College of Management & Activities
NUK Deepens Academic Exchange with Korea: Vice President Wu Hsing-Hao and OIA Dean Lin Hsing-Ju Lead Delegation to Visit 3 Universities and 1 Government Research Institute to Promote Cooperation
【Text and Photos: Hsu Yuan-Ju, Office of International Affairs】【Translated with the assistance of Google Gemini】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】2025-09-16 National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) continues to deepen its international cooperation. From September 8th to 12th, Vice President Wu Hsing-Hao and Dean of the Office of International Affairs (OIA), Lin Hsing-Ju, led a delegation, including two students, to Korea for a mobile course, academic exchange, and cooperation visits. The itinerary covered Hanbat National University, Korea Legislation Research Institute (KLRI), Jeonbuk National University, and Dongduk Women's University.The delegation first visited Hanbat National University (HBNU) and met with representatives from the Daejeon Metropolitan City Government to discuss the feasibility of jointly organizing seminars and promoting bilateral city cooperation. HBNU President Dr. OH Yong-Jun, Dean of Planning Prof. OH Min-Wook, Dean of International Affairs Prof. KWON Ki-Seok, Professor of Electronic Engineering and Director of the Smart Nano Semiconductor Research Institute Prof. KOO Chi-Wan, and Mr. KIM Jin-Soo, Manager of the Semiconductor Industry Support Department of Daejeon City, all attended the meeting, demonstrating the strong sincerity and consensus of both sides to promote collaboration.Subsequently, the delegation traveled to the Korea Legislation Research Institute (KLRI) in Sejong City, where, in conjunction with NUK's Higher Education Sprout Project mobile course, the two sides co-hosted the "Forum on Climate Change and Smart Cities." Vice President Wu delivered a keynote presentation titled "Advancing Public-Private Partnerships for Nature-Based Solutions to Climate Change – Lessons from Taiwan and the EU’s Experience," sharing Taiwan's and the EU's experience in using the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to promote Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) for climate change, which received an enthusiastic response from the attending experts and scholars. OIA Dean Lin Hsing-Ju served as a main discussant, further deepening the dialogue and exchange at the forum. Two NUK graduate students from the Department of Financial and Economic Law also joined the delegation, presenting specialized reports on net-zero emission legal policies and participating in the discussion, allowing students to expand their international horizons and professional knowledge in a cross-border learning environment.In Jeonju City, Jeonbuk National University (JBNU) and NUK further engaged in academic exchange. Both sides conducted detailed negotiations on the renewal of their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and Student Exchange Agreement (MoA), as well as specific exchange items, solidifying the foundation for future cooperation between the two universities. The JBNU Law School also specially invited Vice President Wu to deliver a special lecture titled "Green v Green: Taiwan's Experience for Balancing Renewable Energy Development and Ecological Concerns," and discussed directions for academic collaboration between the two Law Schools with Dean Chung Young Sun and Director of the Northeast Asian Law Institute Song Moon Ho, among other professors.Finally, the delegation visited Dongduk Women's University in Seoul. President Kim Myung-Ae personally received the delegation and discussed the student exchange program and various cooperation items. An agreement was reached to further sign a student exchange agreement between the two universities, with the expectation of establishing a more diverse exchange platform for faculty and students.This visit to Korea not only deepened NUK's existing sister school relationships but also showcased the university's internationalization features through the mobile course and cross-national forums. The actual participation of graduate students also highlighted NUK's achievements in cultivating interdisciplinary students with an international perspective. NUK will continue to promote international academic cooperation, expand students' international mobility, and strive to enhance the visibility of Taiwan's higher education.#SDG4 #SDG11 #SDG13 #SDG17 @Office of International Affairs & Event
NUK Summer School Unites Students from Partner Universities for Immersive Program on Sustainability and Culture
【Text, Photos: Office of International Affairs, Wang Yi-Fang; Edited by: Public Affairs Section】【Translator：Han Siou-Yao】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】 — After ten immersive days of learning and discovery, National University of Kaohsiung’s (NUK) annual "Summer School" has drawn to a successful close. The program brought together students from partner universities in Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, and Thailand for a rich itinerary of expert lectures, interactive Chinese classes, cultural workshops, and SDG-themed excursions. Participants not only improved their language skills but also gained deeper insights into Taiwanese culture and sustainable actions in southern Taiwan.The event, organized by the Office of International Affairs, was held from July 31 to August 9. Dr. Lin Xing-Ru, Dean of International Affairs, stated that the Summer School offers a unique blend of language instruction and dialogue on global issues, fostering cross-cultural understanding and a global perspective among young leaders. "The curriculum is designed to integrate sustainable development with entrepreneurial challenges, all while highlighting local culture," she said. "We will continue to strengthen our partnerships with these universities to expand opportunities for student mobility and exchange."In addition to the opening ceremony, Lin Xing-Ru also presided over the closing ceremony, expressing care and best wishes to the participants, and personally presented certificates of completion to recognize their participation and learning achievements in these activities. The review video shown at the ceremony highlighted the event’s memorable moments. Participants expressed their gratitude to each other in Chinese and exchanged handwritten cards, symbolizing the genuine friendships formed through cross-cultural exchange.During the event, the Office of International Affairs arranged for several NUK students to serve as mentor, accompanying Summer School participants throughout their adaptation to campus and daily life. The language courses adopted a gamified interactive approach, covering scenarios such as self-introduction, daily expressions, and ordering food, fostering a two-way exchange and a positive learning atmosphere.Themed lectures featured NUK Vice President Wu Xing-Hao, Professor Mazanai Musara from the University of Mpumalanga (UMP) in South Africa, Dr. Laely Nurhidayah from the Legal Research Center of Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), and Assistant Professor Dong Pei-Ru from Ming Chuan University's International College. They guided participants in a comparative analysis of policies and practices across different countries, inspiring them to consider these issues from multiple perspectives.Cultural experience courses included a DIY herbal sachet activity, allowing participants to learn about Taiwanese herbs and their daily applications, and to build cross-national friendships through group collaboration.Aligning with the program's sustainability theme, off-campus visits included the National Science and Technology Museum to explore energy transition and climate change; a trip to Meinong to experience oil-paper umbrella painting and lei cha (ground tea), understanding the value of traditional crafts in sustainable tourism; and a visit to Kenting National Park to learn about marine and terrestrial ecology, discussing the balance between tourism and environmental conservation.#SDG4 #SDG10 #SDG17 @Office of International Affairs & Event
NUK Welcomes International Freshmen, Vows to Build an Inclusive Campus President Chen Chi-Jen: "Embracing the Spirit of One Global Family"
【Text: Office of International Affairs, Sun Bao-Lie; Edited by: Public Affairs Section】【Translator：Han Siou-Yao】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】 — Demonstrating its commitment to supporting students from abroad, National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) held its "Orientation for International Freshmen" on September 5th. Organized by the Office of International Affairs, the event invited various administrative offices to introduce their services and help new international students smoothly adapt to campus life.President Chen Chi-Jen remarked that this year, there are 99 new international freshmen. Including current students, the number of (international) students from Asia, Europe, and Central and South America has surpassed 300, showcasing the campus’s diversity. He emphasized that international students, having traveled a long way to Kaohsiung, face significant cultural and lifestyle adjustments. "It is the university's responsibility to provide them with companionship and support," he stated, "ensuring they feel secure and can focus on their studies and life here." He also encouraged everyone to actively participate in various academic, recreational, and sports activities, interact with local students, and practice the spirit of "We Are The World" to enhance the quality of learning together.Through this orientation, NUK not only provides new students with essential living information and safety reminders, but also offers support and a sense of belonging as international students integrate into campus life, demonstrating the university’s efforts to promote an internationalized campus.Director of International Affairs, Lin Xing-Ru, shared her own study abroad experience, saying that although there were ups and downs, all became precious memories in retrospect. She mentioned that this year’s freshmen come from 11 countries, with the largest numbers from Indonesia and Vietnam, as well as students from Panama, Slovakia, and Poland. She expressed her hope that through academic and extracurricular exchanges, students would inspire one another and create lasting, positive memories during their time at NUK.The event featured a variety of activities, including a welcome performance by the Overseas Chinese Foreign Student Association, fun quiz games to help students get to know each other, and an early invitation was extended to all to participate in the "2025 National Overseas Chinese Student Cup Sports Games" to be held in Taichung this November, aiming to foster camaraderie.In addition, the Nanzih Precinct of the Kaohsiung City Police Department was present to provide traffic safety and anti-fraud education. Police reminded students that September is Traffic Safety Month, urging international students to always wear helmets when riding scooters and to yield to pedestrians at intersections. Pedestrians should avoid distractions such as using mobile phones while crossing the street and stay clear of large vehicles’ blind spots to ensure safety. Regarding fraud prevention, police highlighted common scams such as fake investments, fraudulent online shopping, and impersonation of relatives or government officials. Students are advised to remember the principles of "Listen, Hang Up, and Verify" and to call the 165 anti-fraud hotline if in doubt.#SDG4 #SDG10 #SDG11 #SDG17 @Office of International Affairs & Event
NUK Signs Student Exchange Agreement with University of Mpumalanga, South Africa — A Milestone in Cross-Continental Academic Cooperation
【Text & Photos: HSU,YUAN-JU, Office of International Affairs; Edited by: Public Affairs Section】【Translated with the assistance of ChatGPT】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】 — National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) continues to deepen its global engagement. President Chi-Jen Chen recently welcomed a delegation from the University of Mpumalanga (UMP), South Africa, to sign a Student Exchange Agreement, making UMP NUK’s first partner university in South Africa and marking a milestone in cross-continental academic collaboration.The UMP delegation was led by Prof. Tokozile Mayekiso, UMP Vice-Chancellor and Chair of the Advisory Board for the Centre for Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator (CFERI), along with Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof. Moses Mbewe, Dean of the Faculty of Computing and Mathematical Sciences Prof. Ntombovuyo Wayi-Mgwebi, and Prof. Mazanai Musara from the Faculty of Development Studies. Earlier this year, NUK and UMP signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on academic cooperation; the Student Exchange Agreement signed on July 31 further lays the foundation for mutual learning, cultural immersion, and expanded collaboration in student and faculty exchanges.President Chen emphasized that UMP, the youngest national university in South Africa, brings fresh energy and innovation. He noted that this collaboration will not only open international opportunities for students but also spark creativity through cross-continental cultural exchange. He expressed his hope for a long-term partnership and warmly welcomed South African youth to experience Kaohsiung and Taiwan’s diverse Asian culture.During the visit, NUK Vice President Hsing-Hao Wu accompanied the UMP delegation to the Kaohsiung Asia’s New Bay Area Startup Terrace, where they explored cutting-edge developments in smart technology and smart harbor initiatives. They also observed how local startups leverage city features to connect with international markets, highlighting Kaohsiung’s role as a vibrant hub of industrial innovation in southern Taiwan.This agreement represents not only a significant advancement in NUK’s collaboration with UMP but also a crucial step in the university’s internationalization strategy. NUK will continue to expand global platforms for students and faculty through diverse forms of cooperation.In addition, NUK’s Office of International Affairs arranged for the UMP delegation, together with participants of the “Summer School” program, to visit the Morakot Typhoon Memorial Hall at the National Science and Technology Museum. Through interactive exhibits, they learned about Taiwan’s disaster resilience, environmental sustainability, and long-term efforts in public education on climate adaptation.#SDG4 #SDG10 #SDG17 @Office of International Affairs & Activities
This Certificate Comes with TSMC’s Guarantee! NUK and TSMC Launch Semiconductor Program to Cultivate Advanced Process Talent in Southern Taiwan
【Text :Wan-Chen Hung, Special Assistant, Advanced Packaging Integrated Technology Center; Edited by: Public Affairs Section】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】2025-07-15 This certificate comes with TSMC’s guarantee! The National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) has partnered with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the world’s leading semiconductor foundry, to officially launch the TSMC Semiconductor Program for talent cultivation. Students who complete the program will receive a certificate issued by TSMC, effectively linking them to the southern Taiwan technology cluster and supplying the nation’s semiconductor industry with highly skilled technical talent.NUK President Chen Chi-Jen noted that the university is located at the heart of the southern Taiwan Semiconductor S Corridor, adjacent to the Nanzih Technology Industrial Park and Qiaotou Science Park, offering both geographic and industry-academia linkage advantages. Since 2006, NUK has offered the “Semiconductor and Optoelectronic Process Program,” building extensive teaching and practical experience, and established the Advanced Packaging Integration Technology Center to continue deepening expertise in packaging, assembly, and process development—laying a solid foundation for southern Taiwan’s semiconductor growth.President Chen explained that this new program is coordinated by the Office of the Academic Vice President and supported by the Office of Research and Development, integrating teaching resources from eight departments and graduate institutes: Electrical Engineering, Chemical and Materials Engineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Computer Science and Information Engineering, Applied Chemistry, Applied Physics, Applied Mathematics, and Statistics. The curriculum is designed in line with a training blueprint provided by TSMC, and includes three tiers—Required Courses, Core Electives, and Professional Electives—with a minimum requirement of 11 courses. Vice President for Research and Development Wu Sung-Mao has actively engaged in multiple discussions with TSMC to finalize course content and collaboration details.Academic Vice President Chuang Hsiu-Hui highlighted that TSMC’s current focus areas—Chip-on-Wafer-on-Substrate (CoWoS), System-on-Integrated-Chip (SoIC), and Chiplets advanced packaging architectures—are areas where NUK has strong teaching and R&D foundations. The program integrates fundamental courses in electronics, circuit design, device physics, analytical chemistry, and process technology, extending into electives such as integrated circuit design, materials analysis, optoelectronic applications, and heterogeneous integration testing and packaging. The curriculum retains NUK’s specialized strengths in process control and advanced packaging, enabling students to build comprehensive semiconductor engineering competencies and achieve a dual-track goal of technical depth and cross-disciplinary integration. The ultimate aim is to cultivate T-shaped talent with expertise in process R&D, testing and packaging engineering, and 3D integration design—aligned with both industry technology trends and national strategic needs.The course modules have been fully integrated and internally reviewed, and the program has been formally submitted for evaluation under the TSMC Semiconductor Talent Cultivation Project. Upon approval, the courses will be progressively opened for NUK students to enroll. Future plans include the introduction of a hybrid teaching platform combining remote hands-on training, corporate case studies, and AI simulation applications—creating a more industry-ready and adaptive learning environment.#SDG4 #SDG8 #SDG9 #SDG17 @Advanced Packaging Integration Technology Center & Research
Breaking into the World’s Top 40! NUK Badminton Duo He Chih-Wei and Huang Jui-Hsuan Claim 1 Silver and 1 Bronze at BWF Super 300 Tournaments
【Text and some photos: Assoc. Prof. Huang Chuan-Cheng, Department of Athletic Performance; Edited by: Public Affairs Section】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】2025-07-17 Breaking into the world’s top 40! National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) Department of Sport Competition students He Chih-Wei and Huang Jui-Hsuan, a golden badminton pair, recently competed in the BWF World Tour U.S. and Canada Opens (Super 300 level), winning one silver and one bronze in consecutive weeks. This achievement sets a new record for both the team and the players in international competition, with their men’s doubles world ranking soaring to an all-time high of No. 37.These two tournaments are part of the Badminton World Federation (BWF) Super 300 series, known for intense competition and a strong field of top players. At the U.S. Open, He and Huang advanced through the rounds, defeating multiple higher-ranked opponents, and claimed the silver medal in their very first finals appearance. In Toronto for the Canada Open, they adjusted their form and avenged their U.S. Open finals loss by defeating the same formidable opponents in the round of 16. Riding that momentum into the quarterfinals, they battled the No. 3 seeds from Scotland in a thrilling three-game match, edging them out to reach the semifinals and ultimately bringing home the bronze medal. Their consistent performance over the two weeks earned widespread recognition.Assoc. Prof. Huang Chuan-Cheng of the Department of Sport Competition noted that He and Huang have been partners since high school and are now in their fourth year of collaboration, sharing both deep synergy and a common goal—to earn national team spots and compete on the international stage. Their breakthrough performance reflects years of dedicated training and perseverance, bringing further international recognition to NUK’s badminton team. Their coach, Lin Shang-Kai, an alumnus and former teammate, played a crucial role through tactical planning and motivation.Dean of Student Affairs Wang Ming-Yueh expressed gratitude for Assoc. Prof. Huang’s dedication and selfless contributions, praising him as both a strong technical and emotional pillar for the players—the soul of the badminton team.Director of the Physical Education Office Lin Chi-Chan highlighted that since its founding in 2013, the Department of Sport Competition’s badminton team has achieved continuous breakthroughs under Assoc. Prof. Huang’s leadership. In May this year, player Huang Yu-Hsun won the women’s singles gold medal in the Open Division at the National Intercollegiate Athletic Games. Assoc. Prof. Huang himself also claimed 2 gold and 1 silver at the 2025 Taipei–New Taipei City World Masters Games, exemplifying excellence both as an athlete and coach.Huang emphasized that while perseverance and skill improvement are “standard requirements” in competitive badminton, outstanding results also depend on the school’s support and corporate sponsorship. He expressed his appreciation to Aba Badminton Team, Hi-Hone Hotel, and Melody Education Center for their ongoing funding, as well as to NUK for providing an excellent training and learning environment. He stressed the collective effort in nurturing talent for Taiwan and pledged to continue developing elite badminton players, leading them to even higher levels and bringing glory to both Taiwan and NUK.#SDG3 #SDG4 #SDG17 @Department of Sport Competition & Activities
NUK Hosts Thai Affairs Lecture: Deputy Representative Sunh Arunrugstichai Shares Latest Political, Economic, and Cultural Insights
【Text and Photos:Asst. Prof. Warinthorn Paphakin, Department of East Asian Languages and Literature; Edited by: Public Affairs Section】【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】 The National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) recently held a special lecture titled “Thailand in Focus: Trade, Culture, and Futures,” featuring Mr. Sunh Arunrugstichai, Deputy Representative of the Thailand Trade and Economic Office in Taipei. With engaging and accessible insights, Mr. Arunrugstichai discussed Thailand’s current economic and trade conditions, cultural characteristics, and regional development trends, aiming to help students and faculty broaden their global perspectives and deepen Taiwan–Thailand relations.In his opening remarks, NUK President Chen Chi-Jen emphasized that Thailand has long been a key partner for Taiwan in Southeast Asia, with active exchanges in education, trade, tourism, technology, and culture. He highlighted the university’s collaboration with Chulalongkorn University since 2016 in offering the CU-TFL Thai Language Proficiency Test, calling it a milestone in promoting New Southbound language and cultural education. “NUK is committed to internationalization and continues to play a vital role in deepening academic and cultural ties with New Southbound countries,” President Chen stated. “We hope this lecture inspires new opportunities for cross-border understanding and cooperation.”The lecture, held on May 29, also served as an extension activity for two courses—Tourism Thai II and Elementary Thai II—taught by Assistant Professor Pan Wan-Ling of the Department of East Asian Languages and Literature. Through face-to-face interaction between the official representative and students, the event bridged theory and practice, enhancing students’ understanding of the Thai language and the country’s cultural dynamics. Professor Pan noted that Mr. Arunrugstichai’s firsthand insights offered students a rare opportunity to grasp Thai policies and social conditions, motivating deeper learning and fostering international awareness. She expressed her hope to organize similar events in the future to further promote Taiwan–Thailand cooperation in language and cultural education.In his remarks, Deputy Representative Arunrugstichai shared his deep personal connection with Taiwan, having previously worked here and now serving his second posting. He said Taiwan feels like a second home to him. He noted that there are currently around 80,000 to 90,000 Thai nationals living in Taiwan—including laborers, marriage immigrants, and international students—and that a local office in Kaohsiung supports services for them, reflecting the close people-to-people ties between the two regions. He emphasized that Thailand and Taiwan share core values such as freedom and democracy. Both have been pioneers in Asia in legalizing same-sex marriage, symbolizing mutual respect for human rights and multiculturalism.On the topic of economic cooperation, Mr. Arunrugstichai pointed out that Taiwan has consistently ranked among the top four foreign investors in Thailand. Taiwanese companies have deeply integrated into Thailand’s industrial supply chain, playing key roles in sectors such as electronics, automotive parts, and printed circuit boards (PCBs). Over 5,000 Taiwanese firms have invested and established factories in Thailand, significantly contributing to local exports and employment. He also noted Thailand’s push toward developing electric vehicles (EVs) and the semiconductor industry, expressing hope for deeper collaboration with Taiwan in advanced manufacturing, as both countries look to a green and innovation-driven future in the Asia-Pacific region.Mr. Arunrugstichai also introduced Thailand’s rich and diverse cultural landscape, explaining that the country is divided into five major regions with distinct religious and linguistic features. Influenced by both Indian and Chinese cultures, Thailand exemplifies remarkable cultural diversity. He encouraged students to explore various regions—north, central, and south—if they ever have the chance to visit, to personally experience the unique lifestyles and traditions of each area. He also revisited the historical ties forged through the Royal Agricultural Project initiated by King Rama IX and Queen Sirikit during their visit to Taiwan in 1963, recognizing Taiwan’s contributions to crop substitution and social transformation in northern Thailand.#SDG4 #SDG10 #SDG17 @Department of East Asian Languages and Literature &Activities
The 22nd Commencement Ceremony: President Chen Chi-Jen Encourages Graduates to Move Forward with Courage and Sustain Social Care, Aspiring to Be a Match That Lights Others' Lives
【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】 The National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) held its 22nd graduation ceremony today (July 7). President Chen Chi-Jen encouraged graduates to face the unknown future “with courage, responsibility, and influence,” and inspired them with the words, “You don’t have to be a lighthouse, but you can be a match that lights up a bit of darkness for others.” He urged graduates to bravely pursue their dreams and maintain a commitment to social sustainability.President Chen noted that NUK ranked first among medium-sized universities in Taiwan in a nationwide survey of the "Most Favored University Graduates by Top 2000 Enterprises." It is also the only medium-sized university to rank among the top 30 overall, demonstrating strong recognition of its educational quality and student performance. On the sustainability front, the university has implemented the ISO 50001 energy management system. In 2024, NUK ranked in the top 18% of 1,477 global universities in the GreenMetric rankings, placing in the top 7% globally for infrastructure, water resource management, and transportation.On behalf of the university, President Chen expressed gratitude to the parents for their long-standing trust and support, which enabled students to grow with peace of mind. He praised the dedication of the faculty who helped students mature through their guidance and mentorship. He also paid tribute to NUK’s first honorary doctorate recipient, Mr. Hung Ssu-Chuan, who funded the construction of the Student Activity Center, the venue for today’s ceremony, in 2016—a testament to giving back to society. President Chen encouraged graduates to remain steadfast and quoted Steve Jobs: “You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backward.” He reminded students that even in times of confusion, every step they take will eventually become a valuable asset. True confidence, he said, lies in believing in the power to make a difference.Dr. Lin Chi-Yung, General Manager of Merck Taiwan, was invited to deliver a speech. Drawing on his 30-year career, he emphasized the importance of discovering interests and setting direction during university. He shared how a summer internship at China Steel Corporation inspired his passion for manufacturing after witnessing the awe-inspiring steelmaking process. Despite detours in his career, he remained true to his initial aspiration. He encouraged students to set long-term goals and continue working diligently, because “efforts are never wasted—they bloom at the right time.”Dr. Lin also reminded graduates that with the rapid pace of technological change, what they’ve learned in school is only the beginning. Lifelong learning and continual self-improvement are key to staying competitive. He emphasized the importance of developing transferable skills such as problem-solving, communication, and language abilities to adapt to changing industries. He urged students not to imitate others, but to “understand yourself and play the cards you’ve been dealt to the best of your ability,” and offered his heartfelt wishes for their success on the new journey ahead.Alumni Association President Lee Tsung-Ming remarked that graduation marks a significant life transition, and every experience at NUK will become a source of strength in the future. He encouraged graduates to embrace gratitude and value the relationships and personal growth cultivated during their time at the university—these are the strongest foundations to carry forward. He emphasized that no matter where graduates go, the Alumni Association will always be their support. He urged them to act with integrity, responsibility, and innovation, to use their talents to contribute to society, and welcomed them to return to their alma mater often to continue the legacy and spirit of NUK.Yang Yu-Ning, a graduate from the Department of Applied Chemistry and the student representative speaker, delivered a touching and humorous reflection on college life. She described the past four years as “more exciting than any Netflix original.” If their university life were a screenplay, it would have had countless bloopers—but they never stopped rolling. Through breakdowns, fixes, laughter, and improvisation, they created a film only they could understand, but one worth watching. She thanked her family, teachers, and classmates for their support through times of confusion and encouraged everyone to “applaud the version of ourselves who thought we wouldn’t make it but still pushed through.”Chen Chien-Ying from the Department of Computer Science recalled the unique experience of entering university during the pandemic, saying, “We adapted to remote learning and persevered through difficult times to reach today’s graduation.” He encouraged fellow graduates to remember the passion in their eyes when they started, and that whether a choice turns out right or wrong, both outcomes offer valuable lessons. No part of the journey is wasted. He ended with a hopeful vision of life ten years from now, urging classmates to courageously pursue their dreams.In addition to the official ceremony, a “Future Mail” activity was held in collaboration with Chunghwa Post. Graduates could write letters to their future selves, to be delivered between one and thirty years later, as a blessing or reminder for what lies ahead.#SDG4 #SDG9 #SDG17 @Student Affairs Division & Events
