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LOCAL NEWS: TUP Strengthens Bilateral Ties with Taiwan through Presidents' Forum. The Taiwan-Philippines Presidents’ Forum, attended by Technological University of the Philippines (TUP) delegates, marked an important milestone in fostering bilateral relations between Taiwan and the Philippines and exploring opportunities and collaborations in higher education, held last March 26–29, 2024, at Kun Shan University.

This was partaken by The Philippine University President’s delegation from ten (10) State Universities & Colleges (SUC) and Private participating universities, along with their Taiwan University counterparts. The forum served as an avenue for collaborations and start-up programs such as the Industrial Talents Education Special (INTENSE) program, which encourages Filipino students (undergraduate and graduate) to pursue degrees and work with Taiwan industries specializing in STEM, finance, semiconductor, technology, and engineering fields. In addition, Taiwan’s universities and partner industries worked together to design and modify courses that will provide free Mandarin language instruction, internships, and post-graduation employment prospects. Among the incentives offered by the program are two-year scholarships, a stipend for living expenses, and a one-way plane ticket to Taiwan.

During the four-day visit, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Ryan C. Reyes, represented the university’s interests and goals on the forum. Furthermore, VPAA attended networking sessions, connected with the different participating universities, and engaged in panel discussions that addressed issues such as harmonizing curricula and promoting opportunities for partnerships and collaborations in research and exchange programs.

To conclude the forum, two Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) between the Philippine University Representatives and universities in Taiwan were signed, paving the way for future collaboration in research, exchange programs, faculty development initiatives, and joint academic projects.

A Memorandum of Agreement with the International Talent Circulation (INTACT) Base is still being reviewed by the International Linkages & External Office to protect the general welfare of the students. “Bottomline is all of these are exploratory. We are looking forward to signing MOAs so that we can craft a curriculum that is awarding two degrees for our students,” VPAA added.

The VPAA also encouraged students to join the upcoming Philippines INTENSE Program Exhibition on April 30, 2024, at the SMX Convention Center Manila to learn more about INTACT Base’s scholarships and career opportunities in Taiwan.

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Written by Tristan Fernandez | TPA