TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) vice presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim attended an educational discussion hosted by Taipei city legislator candidate Miao Po-ya on Tuesday (Jan. 2).
During the event, Hsiao shared plans for the National Project of Hope, which aims to address issues of 'inverse distribution' in education, particularly the financial burden on underprivileged children attending private universities.
She underscored the need to actively nurture global citizenry among children, connecting them to the world via digital tools.
Hsiao stressed the importance of creating a friendly learning environment and cultivating a love of learning among children.
Key areas of focus include anti-bullying initiatives, drug education, gender equality teachings, as well as addressing security concerns within campuses.
For socio-economically disadvantaged students, the DPP vice presidential candidate proposed creating a friendly environment for the second generation of new residents, reflecting Taiwan's diversity and inclusivity.
Hsiao emphasized the need to elevate the quality of special education, the advancement of higher education, and vocational development and called for a change in the public perception of it.
Concerning tuition, she suggested that private universities also need to provide tuition assistance to alleviate the financial burden on poorer students.
Regarding foreign affairs, Hsiao highlighted her earlier efforts to sign an educational Memorandum of Understanding while stationed in the U.S., offering scholarship opportunities for young people and encouraging Americans to learn Mandarin and visit Taiwan - opportunities she sees as crucial for Taiwan's global integration.