Under this year’s theme, “Sharing Science, Launching Sustainability,” during the science festival the five museums under the MOE will present themed traveling exhibitions and related activities. Five modular exhibitions will open in succession including the “Exploring the Poles” special exhibition at the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology; the “Wonder · Play” special exhibition at the National Taiwan Science Education Center; the “Shifting Edges – wetlands in the Taiwan special exhibition at the National Museum of Natural Science; the “Climate Ark Sets Sail: A New Chapter for a Net-Zero Future” at the National Science and Technology Museum; and the “Ocean Share LAB” special exhibition at the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium. The five exhibitions will subsequently tour the Taiwan, giving people across the country the opportunity to explore a range of sustainability issues. Through these exhibitions, the museums will incorporate sustainability principles into their exhibition activities.

In addition to the popular science exhibitions and performances staged by the MOE’s five major science museums, this year’s festival will expand its scope by partnering with 34 popular science education bases. A total of 2,063 activities are planned, comprising 12 forums and seminars, 46 theatrical performances, 800 science demonstrations, 600 exhibitions and film festivals, 60 science competitions, 131 workshops, 102 science fairs, and 312 other events at the popular science education bases. Highlights from the five major science museums are as follows:

1. The National Museum of Marine Science and Technology | Ocean Fantasy Adventure ． Real-World Puzzle-Solving 

The children’s Peking opera Juanjuan the Seahorse Who Couldn’t Fit In, performed by the Jingju Opera Troupe of the National Taiwan College of Performing Arts, uses a story set in an underwater world to encourage reflection on marine pollution. The Alternate Reality Game Puzzle Challenge combines exhibition exploration with puzzle-solving, helping participants gain a deeper understanding of marine knowledge and the stories of marine industries.

2. The National Taiwan Science Education Center | Science Takes the Stage ． People in Science ． 70 Years of Science Education Memories

The Science Demonstration Challenge invites young people to form teams and devise science demonstrations, turning abstract scientific principles into onstage challenges. The stage play Nikola Tesla traces his exploration of alternating current and wireless energy, giving audiences an understanding of his scientific ambitions and technological development. Marking the Center’s 70th anniversary, the stage production Foucault Pendulum takes audiences on a journey through time from the perspectives of three generations of one family, tracing the development of science education in the Taiwan.

3. The National Museum of Natural Science | Large-Scale Science Demonstrations ． Extended Reality (XR) ． Indigenous Wisdom

The Mad Science Show uses large-scale teaching aids and theatrical performances to transform concepts of mechanics and chemistry into highly interactive experiences. Captain XR’s Expedition creates an immersive science and art theater experience that blends physical and virtual worlds. The Indigenous Ecological Knowledge Science Play combines various forms of puppetry to showcase indigenous wisdom in food and agriculture, ecology and architecture.

4. The National Science and Technology Museum | Traditional Sounds ． The Science of Electricity ． Hands-On Technology

The Bunun Latuk Demonstration combines traditional culture with string resonance to explain the scientific principles of sound. The Popular Science Fair offers hands-on interactive experiences in science and technology. The Street Power Company uses everyday objects and experiments to promote understanding of electricity generation, electricity use and energy conservation. 

5. The National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium | Ocean Theater ． Silent Disco ． Ocean Cinema

The Ocean Interactive Theater brings Hengchun’s local culture and sustainability concepts to the stage. The Silent Disco combines ocean soundscapes with aquarium display tanks to create a cross-disciplinary music party experience, with participants wearing headphones. The Ocean Temple Cinema presents ocean-themed films, with pre- and post-screening talks to promote knowledge of sustainability.

This year, the MOE has extended its invitation to more public and private science research institutions to join the popular science education bases, bringing together 34 participating organizations across the Taiwan. During the festival, these bases will host a wide range of popular science events nationwide. The public is encouraged to visit the official website for event schedules and details and how to take part in nearby activities. Representative popular science education bases across the Taiwan include:

● North: Taiwan Space Agency, National Taiwan University Museums and Xpark.

● Central: National Health Research Institutes and the Biodiversity Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture.

● South: Southern Region Weather Center, Central Weather Administration, Metal Industries Research & Development Center, and Hengchun Cultural Center.

● East: Farglory Ocean Park.

This year, the festival’s official Facebook and Instagram accounts are also running a series of promotional campaigns, keeping the public up to date with the latest news and offering exclusive interactive activities. In addition to gifts provided through brand partnerships and sponsorships, participants have the chance to win special prizes, including a festival-exclusive 2027 Ig Nobel Prize desk calendar and TaBi LoBi Squad bath bomb blind boxes, offering the public a new way to enjoy learning about science.

● Event information: https://tsf.moe.edu.tw/

● About the popular science education bases: https://tsf.moe.edu.tw/science

● Official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/taiwansciencefestival/

● Official Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/sciencefest.tw

Dr. Kitagawa visited the Ministry of Education in Taiwan to sign the cooperation agreement on behalf of the university. Taiwan’s Minister of Education Dr. Cheng Ying-Yao 鄭英耀 hosted a welcome dinner for Dr. Kitagawa on September 4 and said the Ministry looks forward to working hand in hand with Kyoto University. Supporting two-way cooperation between Taiwan and Japan in fields such as basic research, cutting-edge technology, and the social sciences will provide young students in Taiwan and Japan with more opportunities to help increase academic knowledge.

Dr. Kitagawa expressed his delight to have the opportunity to collaborate with the Ministry of Education to jointly train highly skilled professionals. He expressed hope that the insights gained by the young researchers participating in the program’s research activities would be applied to future research, education, and social initiatives on a global scale. He also expressed hope that this collaboration would facilitate joint research and foster long-term mutual trust. Kyoto University will continue working together with Taiwan to contribute to global academic development and training highly skilled people.

The signing of this cooperation agreement will open new pathways for Taiwanese students to pursue advanced studies abroad. It will also provide an opportunity to further strengthen the long-term cooperation and academic ties between Taiwan and Japan related to higher education and cutting-edge scientific research.

The schools expressed strong interest in exchanges and interaction with primary and secondary schools in Taiwan. In response, the Education Division, Taiwan’s K–12 Education Administration, Taiwan’s Ministry of Education Primary and Secondary School International Educational Exchange Alliance, worked together with the Department of Compulsory Education and Wallonie-Bruxelles International of the French Community of Belgium to organize an international online exchange held on September 29, 2026.

Twenty-three schools located in cities in different parts of Taiwan—eleven secondary schools, and twelve primary schools—and nine secondary schools, and five primary schools located in several cities in Belgium’s French-speaking Community took part.

The eleven secondary schools in Taiwan were: • Caotun Junior High School in Nantou County; • Chien-Kuo Junior High School in Taoyuan City; • Chung-Li Junior High School in Taoyuan City; • Chunglun Junior High School in Kaohsiung City; • the junior high school division of Kaohsiung Municipal Jhong Jheng High School in Kaohsiung City; • Liantan Junior High School in Tainan City; • Ling Ya Junior High School in Kaohsiung City; • Makung Junior High School in Penghu County; • the Junior High Division of Tzu Chi Senior High School Affiliated with Tzu Chi University; • Wen Chang Junior High School in Taoyuan City; and • the junior high school division of Wun Shan Senior High School in Kaohsiung City.

The twelve primary schools in Taiwan were: • Dongguang Elementary School in Kaohsiung City; • Guanghua Elementary School in Nantou City; • Kaohsiung Municipal CianJhen District Ruei Siang Primary School in Kaohsiung City; • Nan-Shi Elementary School in Taoyuan City; • Qingpu Elementary School in Taoyuan City; • Sankuang Elementary School in New Taipei City. • Shalun Elementary School in Banqiao District, New Taipei City; • ShuangXi Elementary School in New Taipei City; • Tainan Municipal Liantan Elementary School in Tainan City; • Wulin Elementary School in Kaohsiung City: • Wunsian Elementary School in Tainan City; and • Xinrong Elementary School in Taoyuan City;

The nine participating secondary schools in Belgium’s French-speaking Community were: • Athénée Royal Paul Delvaux, in Ottignies; • Athénée Royal d’Ath, in Ath; • Collège Pie X, in Châtelineau: • Collège Sainte-Véronique, in Liège; • Communauté éducative Saint-Jean-Baptiste, in Sambreville; • Institut Saint-François de Sales, in Ath; • Institut de la Providence de Champion, in Namur; • La Cité École Vivante, in Liège; and • L’Institut Jean Jaurès, in Charleroi.

The five participating primary schools were: • Ecole fondamentale Émile André, in Brussels; • École Primaire de l'Allée Verte, in Brussels; • École primaire de Heembeek, in Brussels; • L'école primaire des Six-Jetons, in Brussels; and • the Marche-en-Famenne campus of the primary school of the Athénée Royal Marche-Barvaux-Bomal public school network, in Marche-en-Famenne.

The schools each gave a two-minute presentation introducing itself during the online exchange. Each school in Belgium will be matched with one or more of the schools in Taiwan and they will work together exploring themes related to A Day at a Primary (or Secondary) School in Taiwan and Belgium. The students will produce three-minute videos or posters about their daily school experiences, including how they travel to school, their breakfast and lunch customs, class schedules, school uniforms, and after-school activities. Other topics can include What’s in My Schoolbag?, distinctive features of teaching and learning in each school system, local foods, festivals and cultural traditions, traditional architecture, and religious customs in Taiwan and Belgium. The schools can also consider establishing sister-school relationships and long-term cooperation.

This online exchange was the first major bilateral exchange between primary and secondary schools in Taiwan and Belgium. It represents an important enhancing of international education-related cooperation that will broaden the students’ international perspectives.

The opening ceremony was hosted by Dr. Nian Liu 劉念, Chair of the Department of Modern Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics at the University of Oklahoma, and Director of the new Mandarin Education Center. Yvonne Hsiao 蕭伊芳, Director-General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Houston; Dr. Michael Markham, Dean of the Dodge Family College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Oklahoma; Dr. Rebecca Cruise, Associate Provost for Global Engagement at the University of Oklahoma; and Dr. Sophia Shi-Huei Ho 何壽慧, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Ming Chuan University each spoke at the opening about the importance of language learning, and their dedication to helping to train a new generation of global leaders equipped with professional expertise, bilingual proficiency, and international perspectives.

They were joined at the celebration by more than 100 guests, including Rebecca Lan 藍先茜, Director of the Education Division at TECO in Houston; Qin ZiHong 秦子紘, Director of the Mandarin Studies & Culture Center at Ming Chuan University, Leanne Eyerman from Ming Chuan University who is Director of the U.S. Campus, university officials, academics, students, and members of the local community.

After the ribbon-cutting, Bradley Quy, a master's degree student at the University of Oklahoma and one of the inaugural participants in the Study Abroad to Taiwan program, gave a performance of Don’t Leave Me Alone Anymore 不再讓你孤單. This is a song in Mandarin by Bobby Chen 陳昇, a famous Taiwanese singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist.

His performance was followed by a screening of the documentary A Chip Odyssey. The film interviews more than 80 key figures who witnessed and shaped the development of Taiwan’s semiconductor industry which began with the first generation of semiconductor engineers from Taiwan going to the United States in the 1970s for a technology transfer program. This illustrates how bilateral cooperation can lead to advanced technology and global innovation.

Prof. Rajat Moona, Director of the Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IIT Gandhinagar), led a delegation to Taiwan from September 20 to September 25, at the invitation of Taiwan’s Ministry of Education. During the delegation’s visit, separate memoranda of understanding were signed between IIT Gandhinagar and three universities in Taiwan—between IIT Gandhinagar and National Central University; between IIT Gandhinagar and National Taiwan University of Science and Technology; and between IIT Gandhinagar and National Taipei University of Technology. IIT Gandhinagar will strengthen cooperation related to semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), advanced engineering, and other cutting-edge fields with each of these three universities.

IIT Gandhinagar is located in Gujarat, where the Indian government is actively developing a semiconductor ecosystem, and it is playing an important role in semiconductor research, industry collaboration, and the development of a skilled workforce. With support from India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and the Government of Gujarat, IIT Gandhinagar established the Silicon and Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing Research and Training Hub (SAMARTH) and launched programs such as Integrated Circuit Design and Technology (ICDT) to train professionals with advanced semiconductor skills.

The delegation visited five leading Taiwanese universities—National Cheng Kung University, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, National Taipei University of Technology, and National Central University—and the Taiwan Semiconductor Research Center, and Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (PSMC).

The MOU on higher education cooperation between Taiwan and Rhode Island was renewed through an exchange of documents. Dr. Lee Yu-Jiuan 李毓娟, Director General of the Department of International and Cross-Strait Education at Taiwan’s Ministry of Education signed on behalf of the Ministry of Education. Dr. Shannon Gilkey, Rhode Island’s Commissioner of Postsecondary Education then signed it on behalf of the Rhode Island Council on Postsecondary Education at a signing ceremony on September 3, 2026, finalizing the renewal.

The signing ceremony was held at the Rhode Island State House. It was attended by Rhode Island Governor Daniel McKee, and Alexander Tah-Ray Yui 俞大㵢, Taiwan’s Representative to the United States, and more than 50 people from government, academia, and the local community. Among them were Professor Beverly Bossler, Chair of the Department of East Asian Studies at Brown University; Dr. Kristin Johnson, Vice Provost for Global Initiatives at the University of Rhode Island; Dr. Wu Yu 吴瑜Director of the Chinese Flagship Program at the University of Rhode Island; Dr. Drew Echelson, the Rhode Island Department of Education Deputy Commissioner for systems transformation, and Stephen Osborn, Chief of Innovation at the Rhode Island Department of Education.

The renewal of this MOU reflects the commitment of Taiwan and Rhode Island to engaging in educational exchanges and long-term partnerships related to higher education and Mandarin language education.

Education fairs provide Thai students and educators with information about Taiwan’s high-quality higher education resources, diverse pathways to further study, university-to-university exchanges, international industry-academia cooperation activities, and associated future career opportunities.

The 2026 Taiwan Higher Education Expo began with a major education fair held at Samyan Mitrtown Hall in Bangkok on August 29 and 30 that attracted more than 1,600 Thai students, teachers, parents, and educators. Thirty-three universities in Taiwan and five Taiwanese companies took part. The universities provided information about their departments and academic programs, application procedures, scholarships, and study-abroad opportunities. It also included cultural workshops and lucky draws, with the grand prize being an opportunity to travel to Taiwan for a three-month Mandarin language program. 

Mr. Doong Sy-Chi董思齊, Deputy Representative of Taiwan, stationed at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Thailand, gave the opening remarks. He explained that Taiwan is increasingly becoming an important higher education destination for international students that offers a wide range of internationally recognized academic programs. Studying in Taiwan provides students with more than a degree: it also enables them to experience a vibrant and welcoming society, develop their professional skills, build connections with industry, and prepare themselves for international careers.

From August 29 to September 4, a series of Expo activities were held in Khon Kaen, Chiang Mai, and Bangkok. These sessions placed emphasis on giving Thai students details of the INTENSE Program (the International Industrial Talents Education Special Program) to attract them to study in Taiwan. As economic and technological cooperation between Taiwan and Thailand continues to grow, Thai students studying in Taiwan have the potential to become professionals in their respective fields, and to serve as a new generation of people connecting Taiwan and Thailand. 

The INTENSE Program brings together resources of government, industry, and academia to boost interactions and the training of young professionals in the fields of semiconductors, STEM and finance. It connects education, internships, and employment to create an international skilled workforce circulation model. National Pingtung University of Science and Technology is administering the lINTENSE Program at the INTACT Base: Taiwan–Thailand with the assistance of Chaoyang University of Technology, and National Sun Yat-sen University. 

Chu Chun-Chang 朱俊彰, Administrative Deputy Minister of Education, introduced the objectives and key features of the program in a specially recorded video at the openings of the sessions at the four Expo tour venues. These were personally attended by Distinguished Professor Jywe Wen-Yuh 覺文郁, Director of the International Industry-University Education Cooperation Alliance Project Office; Prof. Chang Chin-Lung張金龍, president of National Pingtung University of Science and Technology; Prof. Cheng Tao-Ming 鄭道明, president of Chaoyang University of Technology; and personnel from National Sun Yat-sen University.

Ms. Ann Hsueh 薛懿含, Secretary of the Education Division of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Thailand, spoke at the education fairs in Khon Kaen and Chiang Mai about the continued growth of educational cooperation between Thailand and Taiwan and the wide range of scholarships that Taiwan offers has led to Taiwan becoming an increasingly important overseas higher education study destination for students from Southeast Asia. This year, the Education Division recommended 23 students to receive a Taiwan Scholarship to undertake a degree program in Taiwan, and 61 students to receive a Huayu Enrichment Scholarship to study Mandarin in Taiwan. These were record high numbers for each scholarship program. She encouraged Thai students to be sure to consider the INTENSE Program which is designed to attract more international students to Taiwan to study and then work there after graduation. It brings together resources from government, industry, and academia and offers students generous support, including tuition assistance and living allowances.

The key goals of holding this year’s higher education expo as a four-stop tour were to increase more Thai students’ awareness of and interest in studying in Taiwan, and awareness of the industry cooperation connections with bilateral development of highly skilled professionals. This new model Expo is expected to create more opportunities for higher education and industrial collaboration between Taiwan and Thailand.

Where Technology Meets Ethnography: ICME in Kaohsiung at the NSTM

The decision to hold an international conference on ethnography in Kaohsiung, an industrial city, and at a museum devoted to applied science, perfectly embodies this year’s theme of “Recovery and Regeneration.” Kaohsiung is a vibrant city known for its port, technological development, and urban modernization. From ports and shipping, sugar industry railways, steelmaking and shipbuilding, petrochemicals, and processing and manufacturing, Kaohsiung has gradually transformed into a high-tech smart city. This rapid and dynamic process of urban transformation aligns perfectly with the theme of this year’s conference.

The NSTM has long played an irreplaceable role in preserving and interpreting the development of the Taiwan through industrial and technological artifacts, local histories, and personal recollections. Its work traces the transition from traditional production to industrialization and technological development, as well as the evolution of everyday life. The NSTM advocates an approach to cultural experiences that begins with objects, reflecting ethnography’s profound concern for human ways of life, community memory, and the preservation of material culture.

Infrastructure Upgrades and Net-Zero Sustainability: Transforming NSTM’s Venue for its 30th Anniversary

The 2026 ICME was held as NSTM approaches its 30th anniversary. In 2025, the Ministry of Education (MOE) began supporting the museum’s Site Optimization and Facility Renewal Project. The initiative encompasses improvements to its museum spaces, infrastructure, exhibition content, and visitor services. These improvements aim to gradually develop a setting for science and technology education and public learning that better meet future needs and respond to the challenges of technological innovation, urban development, climate change, and net-zero sustainability.

In the process of “recovery” and “regeneration,” the NSTM is not only upgrading its facilities but also rethinking the museum’s relationship with the city, society, and its visitors. The South Complex is promoting spatial regeneration and green building transformation while connecting with surrounding green corridors and public venues. In the North Complex, infrastructure improvements are enhancing safety and energy efficiency. The museum is also introducing smart ticket gates and digital ticketing while improving its visitor wayfinding signage system to continuously enhance visitor experiences.

The MOE has emphasized that regeneration in museums is not about leaving the past behind. Rather, it is about building on existing professional expertise and cultural memory while continually adapting museum services and functions to social change and creating new public value. The 2026 ICME theme of “Recovery and Regeneration” therefore not only represents an important issue for contemporary museums facing social change but also reflects the NSTM’s ongoing process of optimizing its spaces and adjusting its functions.

As NSTM approaches its 30th anniversary and enters a new chapter, it will carry forward memories of the past through “recovery” and respond to future challenges through “regeneration.” With the 2026 ICME Annual Conference in the Taiwan, the NSTM will continue to connect local and international resources and serve as an important public venue linking technology, education, society, and the international community. In doing so, the museum will develop as a hub for international exchanges in science and culture in the southern region of Taiwan, with strong local roots and global outlooks.

They began their stay in Poland with a visit to the Taipei Representative Office in Poland, where they were received by Deputy Counsellor Chu Yeh-Shin 朱業信 and Tseng Suzen 曾素貞, Director of the Education Division. Director Tseng gave a brief presentation on Taiwan’s study abroad programs, and she encouraged the students to actively make use of such government resources to broaden their international horizons and enhance their global competitiveness.

During their stay in Poland, the students travelled to the cities of Warsaw, Wrocław, Gliwice, Gdańsk, Kraków, and Łódź. The focus of their study tour was observing and learning about automation of industry. This included observing the use of CNC (computer numerical control), PLM (product lifecycle management) software, and ESG (environmental, social, and governance) control systems. 

The students had valuable short hand-on learning sessions at Warsaw University of Technology, and at the Silesian University of Technology where they visited the AIUT Autonomous Mobile Robots Laboratory. They also visited several other renowned academic and industrial institutions such as LG Energy Solution Wrocław, the Port of Gdańsk Authority, cultural and technology institutions in Kraków, and the Chimei Poland factory, to give them gaining deep insights into Poland's development in technology, industry, and innovation. 

The Taiwan Global Youth Pathfinders Initiative is designed to expand international exchanges, and enhance the global perspectives of young people aged 15 to 30, and promote their engagement in innovation and cross-disciplinary cooperation. It encourages young people to demonstrate creativity, vitality, and resilience on the international stage and share Taiwan’s core values of freedom, democracy, and human rights with the world.

All the young students had a wonderful time in Poland—expanding their global vision, accumulating valuable experience, building cherished friendships—and becoming bridges for future cooperation between Taiwan and Poland!

Woobee and Lucy who have backgrounds in performing arts and music took part in a professional immersion focused on educational outreach and cultural exchanges. They interacted with children aged 6 to 12 attending AST summer camps and shared details of Taiwan’s history, arts, and traditions. They also undertook research and developed Taiwan-focused K–12 lesson plans, providing local educators with new resources to use to introduce contemporary Taiwanese culture to young learners.

Woobee and Lucy worked closely with Director Sumaira Dharani and the education team at Asia Society Texas during their time in Houston. As well as guiding them with their project, the team introduced them to a wide range of Houston's civic, cultural, and artistic communities, to help give them a firsthand understanding of the region's educational landscape.

At the end of the program, Woobee and Lucy paid a courtesy call to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Houston on July 23, accompanied by the AST education team. They met with Yvonne Hsiao 蕭伊芳, the Director General of TECO in Houston, and Rebecca Lan 藍先茜, the Director of the Education Division, who welcomed them and heard firsthand accounts of and reflections on taking part in the eight-week program.

Director General Hsiao commended Woobee and Lucy for their contributions as cultural ambassadors, saying that opportunities for young people to engage in professional observations and exchanges on this scale help foster long-term international connections as well as broadening young people’s global perspectives.

Woobee and Lucy will bring back practical insights from their educational immersion in Houston when they return to Taiwan, which will contribute to ongoing academic and cultural cooperation between Taiwan and the United States.

On May 27th, Minister of Education Cheng Ying-Yao led a delegation to Orlando, Florida, for the 2026 Taiwan–U.S. Semiconductor Higher Education Forum. There, he witnessed the signing of a Letter of Intent between the Foundation for International Cooperation in Higher Education of Taiwan (FICHET) and AASCU, formally launching the Taiwan–U.S. Semiconductor Education Alliance. AASCU is a major national organization representing public higher education in the United States, with a membership of more than 500 state colleges, universities, and higher education systems. Members of the delegation visiting Taiwan represent several AASCU institutions and bring expertise in engineering, semiconductors, nanotechnology, quantum technology, artificial intelligence, and international education.

AASCU organized this Taiwan visit to translate the commitments outlined in the Letter of Intent into concrete action. In addition to participating in a forum hosted by the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), the delegation toured Minghsin University of Science and Technology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, and National Cheng Kung University. Through discussions with university and industry partners, the delegation gained firsthand insight into how Taiwan’s universities integrate curriculum design, hands-on training, and industry resources to prepare semiconductor talent. The delegation also attended SEMICON Taiwan to learn more about the latest developments and trends in Taiwan’s semiconductor industry.

Building on these site visits, the delegation brought their observations to the meeting with Deputy Minister Liu at the MOE today. Dr. Liu noted that the United States is an important like-minded partner for Taiwan and that, under the framework of the U.S.–Taiwan Education Initiative, Taiwan and the United States continue to deepen cooperation in higher education and talent development. As technological advances and industrial transformation accelerate worldwide, he emphasized that semiconductor education cooperation extends beyond technology, curricula, and research. Universities and industry must work together to create international learning and hands-on opportunities for students and prepare the next generation of talent with both a global perspective and practical skills.

President Welch expressed his appreciation to the MOE and FICHET for facilitating the signing of the Letter of Intent in May and for arranging the delegation’s visit to Taiwan. He noted that visits to Taiwan’s universities and industry sites had given the delegation a deeper understanding of the close connections between Taiwan’s higher education sector and its technology industry. He also expressed his hope that AASCU member institutions and universities in Taiwan will continue to expand institutional partnerships, faculty and student exchanges, and talent development programs.

Looking ahead, the MOE will continue to encourage universities in Taiwan and the United States to build on their respective strengths through short-term training programs, industry internships, and research collaboration. By connecting higher education with industry resources in Taiwan and the United States, the MOE aims to further strengthen the Taiwan–U.S. partnership in semiconductor talent development.

The competition was divided into two categories: one for students of Mandarin Chinese as a major subject (Sinology students), and one for students of Mandarin Chinese as a minor subject. Thirteen University of Tübingen students took part in the competition. To help them prepare, before the competition each participating student received a list of the texts that they might have to recite. Then on the competition day, each participant had to draw one recitation piece randomly from among all the prepared texts and then recite it on stage.

The pieces included both classical and modern Chinese poems, giving students the opportunity to explore different forms of Chinese literary expression. Many participants incorporated creative elements into their presentations, for example by dressing in costumes, and makeup that matched the theme and atmosphere of their selected text. These artistic interpretations added a visual cultural dimension to the recitations and contributed to the lively atmosphere of the event.

The students’ performances were evaluated based on four criteria, set out in the competition guidelines: 1. their pronunciation and tones; 2. their fluency and rhythm; 3. their emotional expression and delivery; and 4. their interpretation and understanding of the text. A panel of judges consisting of Chinese language instructors and faculty members, and Ms. Sabine Chin-Ying Weng 翁勤瑛, Director of the Education Division of the Taipei Representative Office in Germany selected the first, second, and third place winners in each of the two competition categories. The students who gave the three best recitations in each category each received an award for their outstanding performance.

The competition has provided a new way for students to improve their Mandarin Chinese language skills, deepen their understanding of Chinese literature, and then creatively present what they’ve learnt. It attracted a large audience, including approximately 70 students, and professors and language instructors from the Institute of Sinology and Korean Studies, demonstrating the Institute community’s strong interest in and enthusiasm for creative approaches to learning a different language and culture. The response from the participants and the audience was extremely positive and there are already plans to organize the competition again in the coming year.

The delegation included people from the Philippine Science High School System, De La Salle Santiago Zobel School, Far Eastern University Alabang Senior High School, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines Laboratory High School, the University of Baguio Science High School, and the University of the East Senior High School. The Ministry of Education’s Department of International and Cross-strait Education and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted a welcome banquet where the delegation was warmly received by Dr. Joyce Yu-Jiuan Lee, Director-General of the Department of International and Cross-strait Education.

During the banquet, officials from the Ministry of Education and its K–12 Education Administration spoke about the long-term goals of educational cooperation between Taiwan and the Philippines. These include cooperatively training highly-skilled with global mobility, research development, and developing pathways to higher education in Taiwan with the Taiwan-Philippine high school exchange program. And members of the delegation expressed similar interest in engaging in educational exchanges between Taiwan and the Philippines during their visits to a number of Taiwan’s prominent secondary schools, universities, and research institutions.

The delegation’s visits to National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Academica Sinica, and National Sun Yat-sen University led to productive discussions about establishing closer cooperation in areas such as training skilled people in several science and technology fields, research development, and recruitment initiatives to encourage aspiring Filipino students to undertake studies and training in Taiwan.

Another of many highlights took place on July 15 when De La Salle Santiago Zobel School in the Philippines signed a memorandum of understanding with Taipei Municipal Zhong Zheng Senior High School establishing a sister-school partnership.

On July 17, the fourth Taiwan–Philippines High School Exchange Roundtable Forum was held at National Sun Yat-sen University and attended by personnel from more than 30 Taiwanese secondary schools. During the forum, personnel from several high schools in Taiwan that have established partnerships with secondary schools in the Philippines shared details of their years of exchange experiences. And nine secondary schools in Taiwan extended exchange and cooperation invitations to high schools in the Philippines, demonstrating the growing momentum of such secondary school exchanges and partnerships.

The delegation also attended the presentations at the end of the fourth annual Science & Innovation Camp hosted by National Sun Yat-sen University. Thirty-six senior secondary school students from Taiwan, the Philippines, and Vietnam completed laboratory research, interdisciplinary courses, and entrepreneurship training in just five days. The Camp culminated in a Shark Tank Final Pitch, presented to an international panel of one hundred high school educators from Taiwan and the Philippines. The students’ collaborative efforts to transform laboratory research results into innovative proposals unanimously impressed the panel. It found their teamwork, interdisciplinary skills, and bilingual education future-ready.

This is the fourth consecutive year that the Education Division of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines has promoted the Taiwan–Philippines high school exchange program. This year’s exchange represents a milestone with the number of exchange and cooperation invitations extended to high schools in the Philippines by high schools in Taiwan, and the signing of the MOU between Taipei Municipal Zhong Zheng Senior High School and De La Salle Santiago Zobel School.

The Taiwan Education Center in the Philippines will also assist National Taiwan University with its student recruitment and exchange programs in the Philippines and promote a series of activities, including the next Taiwan Education Fair and Taiwan Scholarship Day in the Philippines. The center remains dedicated to working hand in hand with its educational partners in the Philippines in order to deepen educational cooperation and attract more outstanding Filipino students to study in Taiwan, and jointly train a new generation of highly skilled people with an international perspective, cross-cultural communication skills, and an innovative outlook.

The 67th London International Youth Science Forum officially opened on July 20, at the Royal Geographical Society in London. The theme of this year’s Forum was Truth Through Science, and its focus was the vital role that evidence-based research plays in advancing society in many fields—including medicine, artificial intelligence, space exploration, and environmental sustainability. The more than 500 students from over 90 countries and territories participating included a 16-member delegation from Taiwan. The opening ceremony began with a procession of the delegations from the participating countries and territories and the 16-member delegation joined the other participants from around the world, proudly carrying the Taiwanese flag.

After the opening ceremony, a reception hosted by the Royal Geographical Society gave the students, educators, and delegates an opportunity to interact and exchange ideas, celebrating international friendship and scientific collaboration. The outstanding students representing Taiwan were the first to participate in the Forum with support provided by the Ministry of Education’s Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative which was launched in 2025. Andy Cheu-An Bi 畢祖安, Director of the Education Division, attended the opening ceremony, representing Taiwan’s Ministry of Education. He welcomed the Taiwanese delegation and encouraged the students to make the most of this unique international learning experience.

Professor John O'Keefe, winner of the 2014 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, and the inaugural Director of the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre for Neural Circuits and Behaviour at University College London, then gave the keynote address. Professor O'Keefe reflected on his pioneering research and encouraged the students to pursue scientific discovery with curiosity, perseverance, and an open mind. He stressed that international cooperation remains essential for addressing the complex global challenges of the future.

Director-General Charles Liao 廖朝宏, Education Division Director Cynthia Huang 黃薳玉, Dr. Tsai Mong-Hsun 蔡孟勳, Director of the Science and Technology Division, Science and Technology Division Secretary Mederic Yang 楊明儀, and Consular Officer Jerry Hsu welcomed the group.

Director-General Liao explained TECO-Boston's role to them and encouraged them all to use this valuable time overseas to broaden their international perspectives and build global networks. Education Division Director Huang encouraged them to consider pursuing future studies in the New England area.

Director Tsai then spoke about Boston's world-renowned biotechnology ecosystem and the opportunities it offers for cooperation between Taiwan and the U.S. in the fields of biotechnology, semiconductors, medical devices, and precision medicine. He also discussed innovation trends and research and development related career opportunities.

The visit concluded with a lively Q&A session on overseas study, career development, and scientific collaboration. TECO-Boston hopes that these fifteen young people will make the most of their Future Medicine: Boston Connection project experiences, and apply what they learn abroad to Taiwan's future development.

Their overseas study visit—from July 26 to August 4—was commissioned by the Ministry of Education’s K-12 Education Administration under the New Century Leadership Cultivation Program. This is a program launched in 2000 to nurture future leaders who are able to think globally and act responsibly by helping students develop an international mindset, strengthen their analytical and communication skills, and give them opportunities to observe and increase their understanding of different societies and multicultural awareness.

This overseas study visit was a structured learning journey, rather than a general tour. The senior secondary school students with a sense of purpose who were selected to go on this trip part has to then complete special and preparation. Before their departure from Taiwan, the students were required to read a selection of books and materials, take part in preparatory seminars, and discuss questions related to each planned visit. To maximize the educational value of their experience, they were each assigned specific responsibilities to attend to during the trip, and they took part in daily sessions in which they shared their observations and what they were learning.

The itinerary was designed around visits to five types of places: 1. each host country’s economic development and related institutions; 2.non-governmental organizations; 3. institutions of higher education; 4. United Nations agencies; and 5. internationally recognized cultural and natural heritage sites. This gave the students first-hand insight into a wide range of matters related to science education, environmental protection, political and economic development, human rights, cultural preservation, animal welfare, and different school systems.

The study group visited the University of Amsterdam, Leiden University, Ghent University, and the Belval Campus of the University of Luxembourg. They also visited the European Parliament, the Dutch Central Bank’s exhibition center, the Taipei Representative Office in the Netherlands, and the Taipei Representative Office in EU and Belgium.

The Education Division of the Taipei Representative Office in the EU and Belgium organized a discussion session to introduce Taiwan’s educational, economic and parliamentary cooperation with EU and Belgium for the delegation. Dr. Shieh Jhy-Wey謝志偉, Taiwan’s Representative in Belgium and the EU engaged in a lively discussion with the students, talking with them about Taiwan’s relations with the EU, the functioning of the European Union, and Taiwan's cooperation with Europe in areas such as education, trade, and technology. He also encouraged the students to cultivate a global perspective and remain actively engaged in international affairs.

The students also explored six major cities—Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, Brussels, Bruges, and Luxembourg— broadening their understanding of European history, culture, and public life, and they took part in exchanges with people in local communities, giving them opportunities to represent Taiwan internationally in cross-cultural interactions.

This program will definitely have enhanced the international vision of the young people who went on this overseas study visit and their capacity to make a meaningful contribution to Taiwan’s international engagement.

The core philosophy of Japanese gardens is the harmonious integration of nature and human culture and the key topics covered by the program were garden design concepts, stone arrangement techniques, plant pruning, and spatial composition. It combined hands-on practical training with the guidance of professional master gardeners, interactive discussion sessions, and exchange activities to foster cross-cultural understanding and dialogue between the Taiwanese and Japanese participants.

Mr. Huang Sheng-ming 黃聖明, Deputy Director of the Education Division of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in Japan, said that the program enhanced participants’ understanding of traditional Japanese culture and professional horticultural techniques, and also strengthened connections between young people from Taiwan and Japan through direct interaction. The participants all found the program highly rewarding, and the Taiwanese participants said that the program had given them a deeper understanding of Japanese culture, and they hoped there would be more opportunities of this kind in the future. 

Dr. Mumin Chen 陳牧民, Taiwan’s Representative in India, gave the opening remarks, welcoming everyone. He spoke about the historical origins and cultural significance of the Dragon Boat Festival, and the role of educational and cultural exchanges in strengthening India–Taiwan relations. Ms. Jill Lai, Director of the Education Division at TECC in India, also welcomed everyone and spoke about the objectives of the Taiwan Education Centers.

O.P. Jindal Global University students then gave presentations on the history, customs, and traditions associated with the Dragon Boat Festival. The program included a Taiwanese tea-tasting session and an opportunity to sample traditional festive delicacies, and the participants took part in a workshop on making scented sachets. It was conducted by Ms. Josephine Liu 劉容秀, who teaches Mandarin Chinese at the Taiwan Education Center at O.P. Jindal Global University. 

The Dragon Boat Festival celebration gave the participants a deeper understanding of Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage, and the cherished Dragon Boat Festival traditions, associated with health, protection, and good fortune.

The Taipei Economic and Cultural Center in India and the Taiwan Education Centers will continue to foster cross-cultural learning and people-to-people connections among young learners and educators.

Phenikaa University—formerly known as Thanh Tay University—was established in Hanoi in 2007. In October 2017 the university officially became a member of the Phenikaa Group, one of Vietnam’s leading industrial conglomerates, and it was officially renamed Phenikaa University in November 2018. In July 2025, the university received official approval from Vietnam’s Ministry of Education and Training to be a “priority field university”. The university has strong links with industry, and in November 2024 it hosted an information briefing and exhibition promoting Taiwan’s INTENSE Program and how to apply for it, organized in conjunction with a number of universities in Taiwan.

The visiting delegation was warmly received by Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Ninh 阮玉寧, Vice-President (Global Outreach), Dr. Nguyen Viet Anh 阮越英, Deputy Dean of the School of Interdisciplinary Digital Technology; Dr. Nguyen Quoc Dinh 阮國定, Deputy Chief of the External Engagement Office; Dr. Pham Thuy Hong 范翠紅, Deputy Head of the Chinese Language Department, and Dr. Ngo Thi Phuong Thao 吳氏芳草, Deputy Head of the Department of Oriental Studies. 

Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Ninh, the Vice-President for Global Outreach, welcomed the delegation from the Education Division and provided an overview of the university’s current developments. She expressed hopes that the Education Division would be able to help facilitate exchanges of academic staff and students between the university and universities in Taiwan, and opportunities for academic staff members with a master’s degree to undertake PhD programs in Taiwan. She expressed the university’s willingness to provide short-term exchange programs for students in Taiwan, and short-term teaching opportunities for teachers at universities in Taiwan. 

Ms. Ou then spoke about Taiwan’s higher education system which is known for quality and excellence, especially in high-tech fields where Taiwan is a global leader. The tuition fees are reasonable, and the wide range of scholarships provided by the government and by individual universities that can help ease the financial burden for international students. 

She provided the university officials with current details about studying in Taiwan, including various Taiwan government scholarships, the Ministry of Education’s International Industrial Talents Education Special Program (the INTENSE Program), and another program for recruiting qualified Chinese language teachers to teach at Vietnamese universities. Ms. Ou assured their hosts that the Education Division would be glad to facilitate exchanges between universities in Taiwan and Phenikaa University, and she expressed her hope that the university would encourage outstanding students and staff to choose Taiwan for further study.

The Education Division invited Ms. Ku Chen-Jung, a Mandarin instructor from Universiti Malaysia Sabah to serve as the lead instructor. The teachers introduced the students to basic Mandarin vocabulary and simple conversations in a relaxed and enjoyable environment, using interactive teaching methods, language games, and cultural activities. 

Ms. Canny Yi-Ken Liao 廖苡亘, Director of the Education Division, TECO in Malaysia encouraged the students to treasure every opportunity to learn and to use language as a bridge for communication that will open doors to a wider range of opportunities in the future. Learning languages helps students expand their social networks and global perspectives and it also enhances their future academic and career opportunities. 

She encouraged students to explore scholarship opportunities and Mandarin learning programs in Taiwan through the Education Division if they go on to complete the Malaysian Higher School Certificate (Sijil Tinggi Pendidikan Malaysia, STPM). Taiwan welcomes more Malaysian students to undertake higher education there in a diverse academic environment where they can experience rich cultural experiences. 

Ms. Chong Lee Ngo, Principal of SMK Merbau, said that language should serve as a bridge for communication and mutual understanding rather than a barrier between ethnic communities. She encouraged the students to seize this opportunity to learn Mandarin and gain a deeper understanding of different cultures, and thereby foster greater social harmony. She also said that Sarawak's long-standing tradition of people from diverse ethnic backgrounds learning each other’s languages and cultures is one of the state's greatest strengths and reflects its enduring spirit of unity and inclusiveness.

The Fun Mandarin Course ended on a positive note, with the students showing strong interest in continuing to learn Mandarin through interactive activities. The Education Division of TECO in Malaysia will continue to promote Mandarin learning across Malaysia, and encourage more Malaysian students to explore higher education opportunities in Taiwan.