TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) urged universities to address the needs of young people in a turbulent world during a ceremony for the National University System of Taiwan's (NUST, 台灣國立大學系統), a consortium of 15 public universities, cross-disciplinary collaboration on Tuesday (Jan. 27). She emphasized the importance of integrating resources across institutions to broaden students' horizons and provide diverse development opportunities. Hsiao called on NUST to deepen its collaboration and become a strong supporter of the youth.
Hsiao shared her own academic journey, revealing her initial interest in math and chemistry. She highlighted the rapid advancements in technology, with artificial intelligence becoming a standard in industries. She noted the rise of the space industry, satellite technology, marine sustainability, and the blue economy as new responsibilities and opportunities for Taiwan. The vice president stressed the need to cultivate talent across disciplines through cross-institutional cooperation and diverse exploration options.
Hsiao called for nurturing professionals with innovative thinking and an international perspective to help young people expand their outlook. Highlighting the international partnerships established by the 15 universities, Hsiao encouraged students to take advantage of cross-school courses and international collaborations to confidently face the world. She also mentioned President Lai Ching-te's (賴清德) Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative (青年百億海外圓夢基金計畫), which aims to ensure that young people do not miss out on global opportunities due to resource limitations.
The Taiwan Global Pathfinders Initiative (青年百億海外圓夢基金計畫), introduced by President Lai Ching-te (賴清德), aims to ensure that young people do not miss out on global opportunities due to resource limitations. The initiative reflects the government's commitment to supporting Taiwan's youth in gaining international experience and expanding their horizons through educational and professional opportunities abroad. ◼ (At time of reporting, US$1 equals approximately NT$31.4)