Chairman Haruhiko Kato, Principal Takasuke Yamamoto, teachers Oebesu Mitsuhiro, Masao Takahashi, and Willems Grant, along with 23 students from Onomichi High School in Japan, visited Tamkang University from March 4 to 8 for a short-term study program. The opening ceremony was held at 6:00 p.m. on March 4 in the lobby on the 10th floor of the Ching-Sheng Building, hosted by Kuan-Jung Chen, Project Manager of the Chinese Language Center. Vice President for International Affairs Hsiao-Chuan Chen, Dean of International Affairs Chien-Mu Yeh, and Director of the Chinese Language Center Hsiang-Hua Chou were also in attendance.

The event began with an introductory video from Tamkang University, providing students with an overview of the University’s campus, internationalization, overseas programs, academic facilities across departments, student clubs, and overall employability strengths. In her remarks, Hsiao-Chuan Chen noted that Tamkang has established sister-school and strategic alliance partnerships with institutions worldwide, including Onomichi High School. She also highlighted the University’s more than 200 student clubs, spanning cultural, athletic, and musical interests, offering students rich learning and campus life experiences. She concluded by encouraging students to make the most of this program, gain valuable learning experiences, consider Tamkang for future studies, and experience the cultural charm of Taiwan.

Haruhiko Kato expressed sincere gratitude for the five-day program arranged by Tamkang University. He explained that students would collaborate with Tamkang students in classes to set learning themes, participate in discussions, and present their outcomes through final presentations. He remarked that such practical courses are both a challenge and an opportunity for growth for high school students, emphasizing that “studying abroad is not only about language learning or tourism, but also about engaging with different values, clearly expressing one’s own ideas, and respectfully discussing diverse perspectives.” Through exchange and interaction, students can gain knowledge, build friendships, broaden their horizons, and enhance their confidence. He also expressed hope that this program would mark the beginning of deeper collaboration between the two schools and develop into a long-term and fruitful partnership.

Following the ceremony, a welcome banquet featuring Taiwanese-style buffet dishes was held, concluding the first day in a warm and lively atmosphere. In the following days, students will participate in English speech sessions, Chinese language experience courses, group discussions with Tamkang student partners, and final presentations. Off-campus excursions are also arranged to explore Taiwan’s culture and attractions.

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

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