On March 7, the Principal, Takasuke YAMAMOTO, Chairman, Haruhiko KATO, and Head of the Education Support Department, Makoto SAKAI, of Onomichi High School in Japan, visited Tamkang University, and were received by the Office of International and Cross-Strait Affairs. Apart from discussing short-term course planning matters with the International Affairs Office, they also signed a strategic alliance with Tamkang University. Representatives from both schools, Yamamoto and President Keh, signed the agreement, expressing mutual anticipation for active cooperation in talent cultivation and diverse exchanges in the future.

The event took place at the Hsu Shou-Chlien International Conference Center. The delegation first discussed with the Vice President for International Affairs, Dr. Hsiao-Chuan Chen, and the Dean of International Affairs, Dr. Chien-Mu Yeh. Dr. Pei-Ching Tsai, the chair of the Japanese department, provided consecutive interpretation throughout. Dr. Chen mentioned Tamkang’s educational philosophy, learning environment, student learning, international exchanges, and future development in the presentation. Of particular note was the establishment of Taiwan's first Haruki Murakami Research Center and the unique opportunities for third-year students to study abroad. Kato mentioned that they have emphasized international education for the past decade and have recently arranged for students to undertake study tours in Taiwan, engaging in diverse interactions with local high school and university students. They hoped there would be opportunities for Tamkang University to plan related activities to enhance exchanges. Yamamoto introduced the current situation of their school, emphasizing their focus on student participation in extracurricular activities, which aligns well with Tamkang University's philosophy. This year, they have even had graduating students apply to study at Tamkang University, expressing their desire to experience a different learning environment at Tamkang University.

During the signing ceremony, President Keh expressed that the educational characteristics of Onomichi High School, focusing on global education and information technology, align well with Tamkang University's internationalization and informatization principles. In addition to providing students with an international learning environment, our school also offers a high-quality Chinese language center for Chinese language learning. He hoped for more opportunities to strengthen cooperation and exchanges and welcomed and encouraged graduates to study at Tamkang University. Yamamoto expressed great honor and joy for the alliance, praising Tamkang University as the top choice for private university students for 27 consecutive years. He also expressed the intention to encourage students to study at Tamkang University in the future, and he hoped that besides student exchanges, both schools could consider enhancing teacher exchanges and learning support. Kato delivered his speech entirely in Chinese, introducing the scenic spots and local delicacies of Onomichi City and inviting everyone to visit and experience the rich landscapes, culture, and genuine atmosphere of the area.

SDGs #SDG04 Quality Education #SDG11 Sustainable Cities and Communities #SDG17 Partnerships for the Goals

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