The Office of International and Cross-Strait Affairs at Tamkang University held the “2025 Academic Year Outstanding International Student Scholarship Awards Ceremony” at 4:00 p.m. on May 6 in the Carrie Chang Music Hall. A total of 20 international students received scholarships. The ceremony was attended by Vice President for International Affairs Hsiao-Chuan Chen; Chien-Hsiang Lin, Chairman of Grand Dynasty Industrial and President of the Tamkang University Golden Eagle Club; Tzu-Hua Chuang, Chairman of Longyuan Holding and President of the Tamkang University Alumni Association Headquarters; as well as deans, department chairs, and administrators from the recipients’ respective colleges and departments. Together, they witnessed this important milestone in the students’ academic journeys in a warm and celebratory atmosphere.

The ceremony opened with remarks from Vice President Hsiao-Chuan Chen. She noted that pursuing higher education abroad requires considerable courage and determination, and that the scholarships were established to ease students’ financial burdens so they could focus more fully on learning and personal growth. She emphasized that the scholarships represent not only financial assistance but also recognition of the students’ hard work and potential. She encouraged recipients to continue exploring new opportunities, broaden their horizons, and strive to make meaningful contributions in the future.

The alumni donors who contributed to the scholarships then shared their personal experiences and words of encouragement. Chien-Hsiang Lin reflected on his own experience studying in the United States, recalling that he also faced loneliness and challenges during his time abroad. With support from his school, however, he was able to complete his studies successfully. Because he had once benefited from such assistance, he said, he hopes to give back to his alma mater through scholarship donations, enabling more international students to pursue their education with peace of mind. He encouraged students to apply what they learn to benefit society, whether they choose to remain in Taiwan or return to their home countries. Tzu-Hua Chuang remarked that the presence of international students gives even greater meaning to the idea that “Tamkang alumni are found throughout the world.” He encouraged students to continually challenge themselves throughout their studies and to become important bridges connecting Taiwan with the global community.

Following the scholarship presentation, Zina Erica Tessa Mangal from Saint Lucia, majoring in banking and finance, delivered a speech on behalf of the scholarship recipients. She expressed that the scholarship not only eased financial pressures but also served as recognition of the dedication and resilience demonstrated by international students. The support, she said, has given recipients greater confidence to overcome the challenges of adapting to a new culture and to continue pursuing their goals. She also expressed her hope of using her education in the future to contribute positively to society.

SDGs #SDG01 No Poverty #SDG04 Quality Education #SDG17 Partnerships for the Goals

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