International Master‵s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies

The joint course, “Semiconductor Industry in the Era of Techno-Geopolitics,” offered by the International Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies (IMAS) and the International College of Innovation (ICI),  successfully concluded its third field trip on December 16. Students traveled to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) Museum of Innovation in Hsinchu, exploring the vital role of integrated circuits in modern life and TSMC’s contributions to global semiconductor advancements and Taiwan’s economic growth. The museum's interactive displays, digital content, and historical exhibits provided an engaging learning experience.   The group then visited the Science Park Exploration Museum, which chronicles the evolution of the Hsinchu Science Park—central to Taiwan’s technological development since the 1980s. This marked the third field-based activity, a cornerstone of the course’s experiential learning approach.   The first field trip on October 15 was to WT Microelectronics, the world’s leading semiconductor distributor. Representatives outlined the semiconductor supply chain, emphasizing the company’s role as a logistics intermediary connecting upstream component manufacturers with downstream electronics producers. WT Microelectronics also expressed enthusiasm for recruiting international talent to support its global operations. (Watch the visit here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZeVXp6FpZyc&t=118s)   On November 5, the class visited Advanced Semiconductor Materials Lithography (ASML), the global leader in photolithography technology, which is critical for transferring intricate circuit patterns onto silicon wafers. ASML extended a warm welcome to the students, addressing their questions with insights from production line engineers, offering hands-on experiences with protective gear, and showcasing its manufacturing processes through an engaging virtual presentation.   To enrich the learning experience, students visited the Taoyuan Winery, a 110-year-old establishment originally founded to boost Taiwan's economy through sake production. The visit highlighted parallels between the value-added strategies of Taiwan's traditional agricultural industry and its modern semiconductor sector, culminating in a sake tasting session.   This course, designed and instructed by the renowned former TSMC’s R&D Chief Dr. Konrad Yang (ICI’s adjunct professor), highlights the effort of NCCU to engage students in learning about semiconductor industry. Students praised the course for its seamless integration of classroom learning with industry insights, which enriched their understanding of Taiwan’s semiconductor landscape. IMAS Director Philip Hsiaopong Liu emphasized that a core feature of IMAS education is providing international students with opportunities to learn beyond the classroom through field studies, thereby deepening their understanding of Taiwan. Meanwhile, ICI Dean Wenling Tu described the course as a model of innovation and expressed plans to explore similar educational formats in the future.

"NCCU" Professors Return, IMAS Students Venture Out: A Week of Alumni Homecoming at the College of Social Sciences Starting this semester, the College of Social Sciences at NCCU is arranging for alumni of international programs, now working in academia globally, to return to the university. They not only showcase their academic research but also share stories of Taiwan they have spread in campuses around the world. The event kicked off on October 21 with Manoj Kumar Panigrahi, a 2022 PhD graduate of the International Doctoral Program in Asia-Pacific Studies (IDAS), now an Assistant Professor and Director of the Northeast Asia Studies Center at O.P. Jindal Global University in India. His academic talk emphasized how shifts due to the pandemic, Sino-Indian territorial disputes, and changing U.S.-China relations, coupled with Taiwan’s increased investments in India and educational cooperation, are reshaping India’s relationships with Taiwan and China. On the 22nd, Virgemarie A. Salazar and Ronald van Velzen took the stage. Salazar, a 2023 IDAS graduate, is an Assistant Professor in Political Science at the University of the Philippines Diliman, and her talk analyzed efforts by ASEAN countries—both at governmental and grassroots levels—to combat climate change. Van Velzen, a 2022 graduate of the International Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies (IMAS), is currently a history lecturer at Erasmus University Rotterdam. His presentation revisited Taiwan’s deer skin trade and hunting regulations during the Dutch colonial period, comparing them to contemporary indigenous autonomy laws in Taiwan. On the 23rd, Sabrina Habich-Sobiegalla, a 2013 IDAS graduate now a professor at the Graduate School of East Asian Studies, Freie Universität Berlin, delivered a lecture. She analyzed grassroots governance in Beijing and noted how public opinions on infrastructure projects are reflected in decision-making bodies under institutional oversight. Dean Yang Wan-ying and NCCU President Li Tsai-yen warmly welcomed the four alumni, expressing joy that their knowledge gained at NCCU is now shared worldwide, further enhancing international understanding of Taiwan. On the 24th, the alumni shared their experiences with students aspiring for academic careers abroad, encouraging them to broaden their knowledge in various fields as preparation for graduation, and to be resilient to thrive in the academic job market. On October 25 and 26, the alumni expanded their engagement, joining IMAS students in sustainability projects with National Taiwan Ocean University and Shenkeng Farmers’ Association. Four IMAS students—Jaden Gloden from the U.S., Ja Seng Hkawn from Myanmar, Daniel Gombos from Austria, and Kei Motimifagha from Nigeria—presented sustainability cases and challenges from their home countries. The Farmers’ Association then introduced the group to Shenkeng’s development, religious culture, and tofu-making. The group proceeded to the Lanyang Museum in Yilan, where Taiwanese student Fangyun Chen explained the museum’s design as an environmentally integrated green building. Their second stop in Yilan was a century-old distillery, where U.S. student Catherine Tadlock discussed its development from the colonial period and recent strategies to differentiate itself in a competitive market. That evening, the students stayed at Fo Guang University, a Buddhist university with campus lodging that overlooks the Pacific Ocean and offers beautiful night views. IMAS student Norbu Lhagyal, from India, discussed the spread of Buddhism to East Asia, while Vietnamese student Tran Huynh Bao Khanh talked about the development of Fo Guang Shan in Taiwan. On the second day, after enjoying a vegetarian breakfast, British student Michael Chang recounted the story of how, in the 19th century, James Horn from Britain and James Milisch from Germany attempted to expand their influence into the Nan’ao region. After the history session, the group headed to Nanfang’ao to experience fishing village culture. They observed the fresh catches of local fishermen and selected seafood to have it cooked by a restaurant for their lunch. The event concluded in the afternoon after returning to NCCU. Gesa Heym, Head of the Student Mobility Unit / International Affairs at Freie Universität Berlin, also participated in this activity and highly praised the cultural itinerary. Philip Hsiaopong Liu, Associate Dean for International Affairs at the College of Social Sciences, noted that through this cultural journey, alumni not only returned to share their experiences with current students, but more importantly, IMAS students gained a deeper understanding of the value of studying at NCCU by interacting with distinguished alumni. In the near future, the College of Social Sciences will organize similar events again.

On February 24th, the Lantern Festival day, the International Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies (IMAS) brought together foreign students and scholars from the College of Social Sciences (CSS) to participate in the Lantern Festival event at Jiying Temple in Muzha. This collaboration is not the first between Jiying Temple and IMAS. In December 2023, IMAS held a holiday celebration at the temple, featuring an indigenous-style roasted pig. Building on the success of their previous collaboration, Jiying Temple invited IMAS to participate in the Lantern Festival. Tradition says that the Heavenly Emperor punishes humanity for their wrongdoing, preparing to unleash a calamity of fire and light on the fifteenth day of the first lunar month. As a result, people hang lanterns on this day, so that when the Heavenly Emperor looks down from above, it appears as though the earth is ablaze with fire, signifying that punishment has been dealt. Therefore, in the evening of the Lantern Festival, IMAS students and CSS scholars, holding torches and lanterns joined hundreds of residents of Muzha in a traditional folk parade. Some participants dressed up as different deities in the parade, including the God of Wealth, the Third Prince, and the Eight Generals. This was their first experience of traditional Taiwanese cultural activities. Dr. Akachukwu Darlington Umeh, a research fellow from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, noted that in his country, carrying torches would be seen as intending to start fires or protests. He expressed surprise that in Taiwan, it is part of a celebration. Other scholars, including Raian Hossain from the University of Nottingham and Yimovie Sakue-Collins from the University of Africa, Toru-Orua, continued discussing Taiwanese culture late into the night after the event ended at nine o’clock. They all expressed a desire to participate in similar cultural activities again. One week later, they welcomed their second opportunity. Jiying Temple once again invited IMAS to participate in the procession activity. The Procession is an event where divine power delineates boundaries. Residents within the boundaries of the procession receive the protection of the gods. The procession is also a ritual that purges impurities and instills a sense of livability and security within. Despite the light rain, the students and scholars first listened to Academia Sinica scholar James Morris explain the significance of the procession, then joined a group that stretched over a kilometer long. The organizers allowed the students to participate in the most important part of the procession, carrying the palanquin of the deity. Symbolizing the combination of local culture and international participation, students and scholars were welcomed by many participants from all over Taiwan. Parade-goers greeted them in limited English, took photos with them, and even shared so-called Taiwan-style chewing gum: betel nuts. IMAS Director Philip Hsiaopong Liu stated that learning should not be limited to the classroom. IMAS has always emphasized the importance of cultural experiences. Over the past few years, students have visited islands just ten kilometers from mainland China, fishing villages, mines, the mausoleums of both Chiangs, and a century-old brewery in Taiwan. Participating in local religious activities this time is a new attempt. International students are welcomed to IMAS to benefit from the excellent graduate education offered by the CSS and to immerse themselves in Taiwanese culture.

Meet Jack Burns, the Alabama-born outdoorsman studying in the International Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies (IMAS) at National Chengchi University (NCCU). Picture this: during a casual morning stroll on campus, Jack decides to unleash his hidden hunting talents. In a jaw-dropping display of prowess, he snags a wild boar from the hills and triumphantly captures two crocodiles from the nearby creek…. But hold your horses—don’t be fooled! It turns out Jack is no fearless hunter. Instead, he’s an undercover animal lover with a heart of gold. As it turns out, Jack was simply lending a helping hand to a master chef, lending his skills to prepare an epic brunch for his fellow IMAS classmates, professors, and friends.  On May 19th, during the NCCU’s 96th anniversary celebration, IMAS coordinated with the College of Social Sciences and the Master’s Program of Land Policy and Environmental Planning for Indigenous Peoples to organize a Taiwanese and Australian Indigenous-style barbecue at the NCCU Arts and Culture Center. The event was attended by distinguished guests, including the NCCU President, Vice President for International Cooperation, the Dean of the College of Social Sciences, IMAS teachers, and students. Bakan Pawan, the Chairperson of the Taipei City Government Indigenous Peoples Affairs Commission and a member of the Seediq Tribe, also joined the brunch. She even delivered a speech in the Seediq language. Several diplomatic representatives joined this event, including, in alphabetical order of countries, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Candice Augusta Pitts from Belize, Deputy Representative Jakub Kopecký from the Czech Republic, Commercial Counselor Hugo Sanic from Guatemala, Francisco J. Martinez, Chief of Economic and Trade Affairs, Mexican Trade Services Documentation and Cultural Office; Deputy Representative Aleksei Kotelnikov from Russia, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Robert K. Lewis from Saint Lucia, Representative Mohamed Hagi from Somaliland, Chief of Thai Community Phonlakrit Warawat from the Thailand Trade and Economic Office, and Cindy Guo, Political Officer from the United States (American Institute in Taiwan, AIT). Bernise Springer, the first secretary who accompanied Ambassador Dr. Robert K. Lewis from Saint Lucia, speaks fluent Mandarin Chinese and is also an IMAS graduate himself. The event also attracted international scholars such as Dr. Randall Nadeau, Executive Director of the Foundation for Scholarly Exchange (Fulbright Taiwan); Sabella Abidde, professor at Alabama State University; Nnanna Arukwe, professor at the University of Nigeria; Chen Chung-an, professor at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore; Richard A. Nyelade, lecturer at the University of Ottawa in Canada; and documentary filmmaker, Tobie Openshaw from South Africa. With the support of these esteemed diplomatic and academic guests, IMAS achieved outstanding results in sports competitions, winning the tug-of-war and dragon ball competitions. In individual events, Josiah Spain secured second place in the long jump and fourth place in the 100-meter dash, Natcha Lee placed fourth place in shot put, and Jan Broese came in third in the 5,000-meter run. Their remarkable performance led IMAS to clinch the overall team championship, marking the program’s best athletic achievement in its twenty-year history. After the competitions concluded, students and esteemed guests gathered to enjoy a unique culinary experience. The menu featured an Australian Indigenous crocodile meal, showcasing the rich flavors of the region. Taiwanese Indigenous cuisine took center stage with a lavish wild boar feast accompanied by millet wine, a true delicacy. Considering the diverse religious backgrounds of many participants, the event also catered to various preferences by offering steak, whole chickens, and an array of vegetables.  Adding to the festive atmosphere, traditional Indigenous Taiwanese costumes were provided for all guests, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the cultural ambiance during the meal. This unforgettable experience not only provided an opportunity to relish the scenic beauty of the campus nestled amidst hills and water, but also allowed everyone to witness the vibrant and multicultural learning environment that IMAS offers to its international students. Professor Philip Hsiaopong Liu, the director of IMAS, emphasizes that the program frequently arranges cultural dinners, inter-university exchanges, workshops, and field trips to provide students with a deeper understanding of Taiwanese culture, history, and society, as well as the opportunity to compare Taiwanese society with the Greater Asia-Pacific and the world. He extends a warm welcome to students from all over the globe, encouraging them to come study under the IMAS program and personally experience the unique opportunities it has to offer.

The Joint Class, titled “Strait, Ocean, and Japanese Colonization,” was a collaboration between the International Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies (IMAS) at National Chengchi University (NCCU) and Williams College. It took place following Taiwan’s 2024 Presidential Election. The first activity involved visiting the Straits Exchange Foundation to gain insights into the recent cross-strait situation. IMAS student Briana J. Boland provided an introduction to the foundation’s background. Subsequently, Dr. David Tawei Lee, the foundation’s chairman and former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Secretary-General of the National Security Council, addressed the current challenges facing Taiwan-China-US relations and warmly engaged in a Q&A session with students from both institutions.   Following this, students visited the Coal Mining Museum. IMAS Vietnamese student Trần Huỳnh Bảo Khánh offered an overview of Taiwan’s coal industry, which flourished during Japanese colonization but declined in the 1980s due to global market competition. A museum guide then introduced early mine shafts, mining tools, and the hardships faced by miners. Students also experienced a ride on coal carts from half a century ago, immersing themselves in the mining environment. After checking into the hotel and dining, participants from both institutes rested for several hours before commencing their midnight classes. As Taiwan’s first railroad started from Keelung, students utilized railway level crossings as makeshift classrooms to learn about the city.  IMAS Polish student Antoni Mazek pointed out that Keelung was formerly colonized by the Spanish and the Dutch, but its true prosperity emerged during the Japanese colonial era, when it evolved into a vital military port. Consequently, Keelung endured significant bombing by American aircraft during World War II. Today, traces of this history, like air raid shelters in residential areas, still exist, offering students a chance for exploration.   Due to Keelung’s coastal location and flourishing fishing industry, IMAS American student Rachel Bernstein elaborated on the evolution of Keelung’s fishery distribution center since the Qing Dynasty, now recognized as Taiwan’s largest fish market. Despite operating exclusively from midnight onwards, the market exudes a vibrancy comparable to daytime. Merchants from diverse regions procure fish catches from northern Taiwan’s ports, swiftly transporting them to markets across the country. Alongside observing an array of fish and seafood products, students were exposed to various sales processes, including transportation and bidding. The following day, students visited a fishing village to learn about early fishermen’s dyeing techniques using local plants. Amidst their exploration, they gained insight into local temples and deities that safeguard fishermen. At the fishing port, IMAS Professor, Deasy Simandjuntak, a Dutch scholar specialized in Southeast Asia, shed light on the role of Indonesian fishermen in Taiwan’s economy and the human rights challenges they encounter.   The final class was held at the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology, which collaborated with IMAS four years ago. Professor Tony Shih explained that the museum, originally a Japanese-era power plant, had been repurposed to preserve history. The coal used to power the plant was sourced from the mining area visited by students the day before. Adjacent to the classroom, remnants of American airstrikes during World War II serve as poignant reminders of the past. Cornelius C. Kubler, Stanfield Professor of Asian Studies at Williams College, lauded the course as the most captivating in his extensive collaboration with Taiwanese academic institutions. Philip Hsiaopong Liu, IMAS Professor and Director, emphasized the significance of off-campus teaching, inviting Williams College students to NCCU next year to deepen their understanding of Taiwanese culture alongside IMAS international students.

On March fifth and sixth, the International Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies (IMAS) at National Chengchi University (NCCU) partnered with the Graduate Institute of Futures Studies (GIFS) and the Department of Diplomacy and International Relations (DDIR) at Tamkang University (TKU) to jointly conduct an academic workshop in Tamsui. The workshop, titled “Taiwan in the Asia Pacific: Between Past and Future,” included nine NCCU students who came from a diverse group of countries ranging from Burkina Faso to Ukraine. The workshop was also attended by over one hundred TKU students. Participants enjoyed hearing different academic perspectives and learning about the rich historical heritage of Tamsui. The workshop began with keynote speeches from Dr. Brett Benson and Dr. Eiichiro Azuma. Dr. Benson, who is a professor of Political Science and Asian Studies at Vanderbilt University, spoke about the development of Asian international relations since the Cold War and analyzed the future of Sino-Taiwan relations. Dr. Azuma, who is a professor of History at the University of Pennsylvania and the winner of 2020 John K. Fairbank Prize for East Asian History, used historical perspectives to explain the role of immigration in international relations. It was a pleasure to hear from these distinguished professors in person rather than from a remote video call. Following the keynote speeches, students from both schools began their academic exchange. Presentation topics included semiconductor policy, vaccine diplomacy, cyber warfare, the history of Taiwanese international relations, and the ontological foundations of East Asian politics. At the end of the workshop, Francesca Sfriso represented IMAS and delivered closing remarks in which she emphasized the importance of interscholastic academic exchange and expressed deep appreciation for the efforts of TKU faculty members and students. In addition to academic exchange, the workshop aimed to teach international students about the early links between Taiwan and the world. Students traveled to Aletheia University, where they met with English docents dispatched by the university. Together with the docents, IMAS students visited Oxford College, missionary accommodation, and the residence of George Leslie Mackay. By visiting these historical sites, IMAS students were able to learn about the role of Christianity in Taiwanese education and medicine during the nineteenth century. IMAS students also learned about Western colonial legacy through their visit to Fort San Domingo. The history of the fort is a great representation of the tumultuous and fluid nature of colonialism in Taiwan; since it was established by the Spanish in the seventeenth century, the fort was successively controlled by the Netherlands, Koxinga, the Qing Dynasty, Japan, Great Britain, and the US before finally coming under Taiwanese jurisdiction in 1980. Tamsui has rich colonial stories. Students stayed over-night in the TKU campus and enjoyed breakfast by the former seaplane airport established by the Japanese in 1941. They also visited the landing point of the French Marines during the 1884 Sino-French War and travelled by boat to the estuary where the French battleships deployed. Dr. Philip Hsiaopong Liu, the director of IMAS, expressed his sincere appreciation for the assistance of DDIR and GIFS. Dr. Liu noted that IMAS has also cooperated with schools in Yilan, Keelung, and Matsu over the past two years. These opportunities allowed students to present their research and network at other academic institutions while learning about Taiwanese history, culture, and industry. The IMAS program focuses on exploring the links between Taiwan, Asia-Pacific, and the world, and welcomes international students interested in joining the IMAS family.

  In celebration of the new year’s commencement, the International Master’s Program in Asia Pacific Studies (IMAS) at the College of Social Sciences (CSS) has selected Muzha Jiying Temple (木柵集應廟), a Taoist temple adjacent to the campus, to orchestrat a cultural immersion event. The event primarily caters to IMAS students, who have graciously extended invitations to their friends and family. Alongside the dean, vice deans, and instructors from the CSS, distinguished guests include Professor Dafydd Fell from the School of Oriental and African Studies at the University of London (SOAS), Professor Parsha Hsieh, the Monet Chair Professor at the Singapore Management University (SMU), and IMAS alumna Cleisha-Bernise Springer, presently serving as the First Secretary at the Embassy of Saint Lucia. The pièce de résistance for the evening is the succulent roasted wild boar. In adherence to indigenous traditions of minimizing waste, the boar’s internal organs find purpose in a delectable soup. To cater to varied dietary preferences, separate preparations of roasted chicken and fish are offered, accompanied by vegetarian alternatives like bamboo tube rice, sweet potatoes, and water bamboo – all reflective of indigenous culinary heritage. Beyond the culinary delights, IMAS students seize the opportunity to delve into the intricacies of Taiwanese temples. Rooted in polytheistic Taoism, this temple, while primarily dedicated to two Tang Dynasty generals, is renowned for venerating the Emperor Wenchang (文昌帝君). Revered for aiding scholarly pursuits, local students frequent the temple to seek success in their exams. Moreover, the temple extends celebratory events to students who achieve admission into their desired institutions. As the final exams approach, many international students participating in the event partake in rituals to seek the benevolence of Emperor Wenchang Mr. Zhang Minnan (張敏男), the Chair of the temple’s management committee, expresses his delight at the initiative taken by IMAS students to organize an event at the temple. He takes pleasure in sharing Taiwanese culture with the esteemed foreign guests and anticipates a plethora of planned activities within the temple precincts for the year 2024, expressing the hope to extend invitations to these students once again.

The International Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies (IMAS) cooperated with the Outreach Office at National Taiwan Ocean University (NTOU) in order to hold a joint workshop, titled “International Workshop for War, Regional Revitalization, and Sustainable Development of Islands,” at the NTOU Matsu Campus on October 16th and 17th. Six IMAS students, from Spain, the US, France, Korea, and Turkey respectively, as well as four NTOU students joined this workshop. All participants not only extended their knowledge of island development, the Cold War, and regional revival, but also were impressed that the Matsu islands could become their classroom. The workshop started at the NTOU Matsu campus. The campus, located on Beigan Island, is surrounded by many traditional Matsu buildings. There are also many anti-tank obstacles in neighboring beaches, artifacts of the tense relations between Taiwan and China. Philip Hsiaopong Liu, Professor and the IMAS director, stated that the NTOU campus itself is a historical and political site and effectively inspires students from both schools to study. Just a few miles away from the campus, students found that many bunkers, which were originally designed to defend invasions from the Chinese mainland, have been redesigned to cultural attractions and therefore generate revenue from tourists. This tourism-based style of regional revival strategies also apply to old military tunnels, which used to be humid accommodation for soldiers, have turned out to be perfect storerooms to age liquor. Apart from learning on land, when taking a boat from Beigan Island to Nangan Island, the students soon understood how close Matsu and mainland China were, which led to a better understanding of the bilateral links in the past hundreds of years. Ferit Oguzturk, an IMAS student from Turkey, said that his country also had similar experiences with neighbors, and some could apply to contemporary cross-strait relations. NTOU Professor Tseng Sheng-wen pointed out that these island experiences were not only providing new information to the students, but also provided a new way of studying In the workshop, other than discussing development experiences in Japan and Taiwan, Kim Sohyun, an IMAS student from Korea, analyzed development problems of islands between North and South Korea. The presentation by Jules Legouis, from France, attracted much attention. He argued that by designing the location of Allied landing in 1944, Normandy has become an important war memorial and museum, which generates a total income of about 160 billion NTD, roughly half of Taiwan’s yearly defense budget, from tourists. Two audience members in the workshop, Mr. Chun-chieh Wang, Chairman of Hung Shun Marine Co., Ltd and Ms. Tammy Tsai, Director of Matsu Community Empowerment Network, both believed that Normandy experiences are valuable to economic development in Matsu. IMAS Director Philip Hsiaopong Liu points out that a workshop on the outlying islands of Taiwan is a new model of IMAS innovative teaching. IMAS thanks NTOU for providing the Matsu campus so that IMAS international students could meet with Taiwanese students in different places, as well as inspire new ways of thinking. IMAS will continue to hold workshops with other schools in the future, and he hopes to see more students join IMAS family.

  Collecting boar semen in Africa: IMAS Student Antoni Mazek as NCCU Campus Ambassador to Eswatini At the end of August, Antoni Mazek, a student in the International Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies (IMAS), participated in a field trip to Eswatini. This trip was part of a joint project between the International Development and Cooperation Fund (ICDF) and the College of Social Sciences (CSS) at National Chengchi University, aiming to deepen understanding of Taiwan’s cooperation with its diplomatic partners in Africa. During the visit, Antoni had the opportunity to observe and engage in various ICDF-initiated projects, gaining comprehensive knowledge of the significance of supporting local communities. On the first day, Antoni attended a session of the National Labor Market Skills project, honored by the presence of Eswatini’s Minister of Labor and Social Security, Mr. Phila Buthelezi. Antoni was pleasantly surprised by the informal and engaging atmosphere, where participants, including the Minister, actively contributed to discussions and light-hearted exchanges. Later, he joined the Taiwanese Ambassador to Eswatini, Jeremy H. S. Liang (梁洪昇), for lunch and a tour of the local Taiwanese embassy. This visit was a unique experience, as Antoni humorously noted that he might be the first Polish person to visit the establishment. The second day of the trip focused on public health issues in Eswatini. With HIV/AIDS rates gradually improving, there is now a growing emphasis on addressing chronic diseases within the population. One of the current goals of the ICDF is to promote healthier lifestyles and prevent the spread of such illnesses. To encourage local residents to participate in free health screenings for obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, Antoni wore traditional Swazi attire. He also visited a local hospital, where he toured the facilities and spoke with healthcare professionals about the challenges they face. For Antoni, this experience underscored the urgent need for improved healthcare infrastructure and education in Eswatini. The next day began with an early visit to a small strawberry farm, where Antoni assisted in harvesting fresh berries. The local farmer, who has collaborated with ICDF technicians for many years, shared that his income had significantly increased since joining the project. After the harvest, Antoni helped pack the strawberries and deliver them to a local supermarket. The day spent at the pig farm presented the most challenges for Antoni, requiring him to step entirely out of his comfort zone. The pig farming project, a vital part of Eswatini’s agricultural economy, seeks to provide sustainable income for farmers while addressing food security concerns. In the morning, Antoni assisted with weighing and vaccinating piglets and learned about innovative practices, such as artificial insemination, aimed at improving production quality. He also participated in an ultrasound scan of the pigs and assisted with semen collection and insemination—a task that was both unexpected and demanding. Accompanying Antoni on this trip was Professor Philip Hsiaopong Liu, CSS Associate Dean for International Affairs and the Director of IMAS. Professor Liu expressed his satisfaction that Antoni stood out among many competitors to participate in this first collaboration between the CSS and ICDF in Eswatini, Africa. With numerous other international projects under ICDF’s purview, Professor Liu is optimistic that IMAS students will continue to have opportunities to visit various countries and gain insights into Taiwan’s contributions to the global community.

On March 9th, the Dean of NCCU College of Social Sciences, Professor Wan-Ying Yang, hosted a Taiwanese banquet and NCCU Associate Vice President for International Cooperation, Associate Professor Jhih-Syuan Lin, Executive Director Dr. Randall Nadeau of the Foundation for Scholarly Exchange (Fulbright Taiwan) as well as other Fulbright representatives were invited. The representatives consisted of twenty-five Fulbright International Exchange administrators from a variety of backgrounds. Each administrator is in charge of international affairs from different universities and colleges across the United States. Four American students from the International Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies (IMAS), Fulbright scholarship recipients Josiah Spain, Juliet Paulson, and Tiffany Wong, as well as Faith Woods, a Taiwan MOE scholarship grantee, were also invited to help receive the distinguished guests. The IMAS students not only shared their experiences in Taiwan with the American visitors, but also explained the unique origin of some of the Taiwanese banquet dishes. Juliet Paulson revealed that the cuisine includes cultural elements and local Taiwanese ingredients from different eras. Paulson explained how lifestyles once reserved for the glitterati have become so popular that they are now accessible to the masses. During Japanese colonization, sashimi, a now more commonplace food, also used to be a delicacy reserved only for the upper class. The Wang Steak, Paulson continued, symbolizes the alliance between the United States and Taiwan from 1955 to 1979. During this period, hearty cuts of beef enjoyed by American soldiers were a sign of luxury. The steak inventor, who used to cook for the richest Taiwanese families, named the dish after himself and transformed the steak into a more widely accessible dish. Tiffany Wong recalled how she grew up enjoying dishes like jellyfish salad, crispy egg noodles with seafood, and roast duck at Chinese-style banquets for weddings and celebrating major milestones. She remarked how the Taiwanese banquet had its own specialty dishes using local ingredients, like the corn-fed chicken from Taitung, steamed rice cake with Sakura shrimps and scallops, and pickled green mango (also known as Valentine fruit). Although the food was different, the atmosphere of the family-style banquet was still just as lively as she remembered from her childhood.  Josiah Spain discussed honeydew ham, a dish invented by Taiwan-based Chef Peng Chang-kuei. The Chef, who was from Hunan province in China, was the personal chef of Chiang Kai-shek and catered the banquet for visiting US Admiral Arthur W. Radford (1896-1973) in 1952. Due to the banquet guests all having the rank of general at the time, Chef Peng Chang-kuei named a new chicken recipe after Hunan’s General Tso Tsung-tang (1812-1885). Eventually, Peng migrated to New York in 1973 and his famous dish, General Tso’s Chicken, was adapted to fit American tastes. The dish still remains very popular in Chinese takeout culture around the States today. Another interesting dish served at the banquet was the Abalone with Fish Maw and Steamed Assorted Meat in Jar. Faith Woods noted that this dish was invented in Fujian during the Qing Dynasty. Woods further went on to explain that because of its delicious aroma, its Chinese name is “Buddha Jumps Over the Wall” (佛跳牆). The name jokingly means that the dish is so tempting, even Buddha, a notorious vegetarian, would jump over a wall to taste it! Currently, due to China’s internet restrictions, Chinese netizens use VPN (Virtual Private Network) to “jump” over the government’s firewall to access banned Western websites. Therefore, in China, this dish is sometimes vividly translated as “God (Buddha) Uses VPN.” By sharing their understanding of Taiwanese cuisine with NCCU’s Fulbright guests, the four IMAS graduate students demonstrated their graduate-level training in history, politics, and culture. Dr. Nadeau and the Fulbright International Exchange administrators all praised the students and their experiences thus far in Taiwan. Dean Wan-Ying Yang and Associate Vice President for International Cooperation, Jhih-Syuan Lin both promised to continue to offer high-quality education and welcome American students to join NCCU’s English-taught international degree programs. Dean of Social Sciences College, Wan-Ying Yang, gave a welcome message to the guests.（Photo by CSS） Juliet Paulson discussed food origins with Deena Mansour, Executive Directo, The University of Montana and Solomon Cross, Dean, Pasadena City College.（Photo by CSS） Executive Director Dr. Randall Nadeau of the Foundation for Scholarly Exchange (Fulbright Taiwan) responded to Dean Yang's message on behalf of all guests with excitement. Faith Woods talked about “God Uses VPN” with Amy Grant, Dean, EL Camino College and Christopher Sippel, Director, Case Western Reserve University.（Photo by CSS） Josiah Spain explained the making of honeydew ham and General Tso’s Chicken for Gabrielle Malfatti, Director, University of Missouri-Columbia, Jessica Muscat, International Academic Specialist, University of California-Santa Barbara, and Michael Wilhelm, Associate Vice President, University of North Carolina Wilmington.（Photo by CSS） Tiffany Wong explained Taiwanese Banquet Cuisines with Matthew McGraw, Associate Vice President, Mountain Gateway Community College.（Photo by CSS）  

Jointly organized by the College of Social Sciences (CSS), the International Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies (IMAS), the University of Nottingham, and the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, the Asian Summer School on Political Parties and Democracy concluded its final day on May 27. Led by Professor Philip Hsiaopong Liu, Associate Dean for the CSS and Director of IMAS, the participants visited the Gold Museum, the French Military Cemetery, and the Ershawan Fort to gain insights into Taiwan’s modern history. The faculty and students first visited Jinguashi, an area actively developed from the late Qing Dynasty to the Japanese colonial period, now transformed into the Gold Museum, which preserves the history of gold mining. At the entrance stands the well-preserved historic site “Four Joined Japanese-Style Residences,” originally the dormitory for Japanese mining officials and their families. As the name suggests, four houses are connected and separated by paper doors or wooden walls. The group then visited the Crown Prince Chalet, built for the Japanese Crown Prince (later Emperor Showa). For many foreign students and teachers, these structures not only hold significant historical value but also offer a glimpse into the lifestyle of the management class at that time. The group then entered a mine tunnel to further understand the life of Taiwanese miners. They sampled miner’s lunchboxes, visited the ore and gold areas, and participated in a gold panning experience. Following the instructions of the guide, they quickly obtained small gold flakes from the sand. While excited, they also began to worry about how to declare these to customs when returning home. After leaving Jinguashi, the group visited the French Military Cemetery in Keelung. Professor Yves Tiberghien from the University of British Columbia, familiar with French history, lectured the group on the Sino-French War of the late 19th century. He noted that French textbooks rarely mention the battles in Taiwan or the difficulties faced by the French troops, emphasizing that Keelung’s humid climate, known as the city of rain, was the most challenging enemy for the French soldiers. The next destination was the Ershawan Fort, which engaged in battles with the French forces. Designed by the Germans and linked to the Sino-French War in Vietnam, the fort attracted significant interest from students and teachers from Europe and Southeast Asia. They overlooked the coast, calculated the distance between the fort and the French Military Cemetery, and imagined the battles of the past. Together with their gold panning experiences, these activities helped them gain a better understanding of Taiwan’s development today, marking a perfect conclusion to the Asian Summer School on Political Parties and Democracy courses. Professor Hsiaopong Liu pointed out that the CSS international program always emphasizes the connection of students with local culture during their learning process. Co-organizing the Asian Summer School on Political Parties and Democracy naturally allowed IMAS faculty and students to share this learning feature with the participants. In the future, similar transnational courses will incorporate elements of local culture into their planning, establishing the unique feature of international cooperation at the CSS.

On March 10-11, students of the International Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies (IMAS) were invited to participate in a joint workshop, titled “Taiwan and the Changing World: Before and After the Pandemic,” with the International Affairs and Diplomacy Program (IAD), Ming Chuan University (MCU) in Taoyuan. Dr. Pasha L Hsieh, the Jean Monnet Chair Professor at the Law School of Singapore Management University, was also invited to serve as the keynote speaker. He stated that after the pandemic, “the economic integration in the Asia-Pacific would confront more social and political crises, therefore this workshop is very timely for young scholars to understand opportunities and challenges in this region”.   Four research ideas were presented in this workshop. Two were from IAD: Elisa Lenker Andrade’s “How State Nationalism Evolves: A Comparative Study of Contemporary China and USA (2012-2022),” and Nell Damara Usher’s “An Investigation on the Identity of Belizean Students in Taiwan as the Result of having Dual Regional Identity.” The other two were from IMAS: Ethan Knecht’s “A Comparative Study of Parental Leave in Hong Kong and Taiwan” and Tobias Larkin’s “Sustainable Development? The Case of Treasure Hill.” During the presentation, in addition to questions raised by students from both IAD and IMAS, Professor Kumari Mansi from Amity University Haryana, as well as MCU professors Ting-ting Chang and Li-kai Hsiao, provided revision suggestions and different theoretical perspectives for students. Nathan K.H. Liu, IAD director, was pleased with this cross-university cooperation and looks forward to further academic exchanges with partner institutes. After the academic exchanges, IMAS students visited Black Bat Squadron Memorial Hall in Hsinchu City. Matthew Ortiz, who was an officer in the US armed forces, was responsible to give all participants a lecture regarding the cooperation between this squadron and the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). He indicated that Black Bat Squadron conducted reconnaissance and electronic intelligence gathering missions over mainland China. It also operated in Vietnam together with the US during the Vietnam War. Overall, the Squadron lost 15 aircrafts and 148 lives from 1952 to 1972. Visiting historical memorials was a main theme of this workshop. Students stayed overnight in the MCU Visiting Scholar Dormitory, and left for Mausoleums of Chiang Kai-shek and Chiang Ching-kuo. IMAS Director, Professor Philip Hsiaopong Liu, used these two Mausoleums as a classroom to give students a lecture: “US Aid and Taiwan’s Development: Black Bat Squadron and Shimen Dam during Chiang Kai-shek’s Era.” This lecture was assisted by two IMAS students. Natcha Lee was responsible for Chiang Ching-kuo’s economic and political policies. When Tinggi Sinaga talked about Chiang Kai-shek’s role in modern China and Taiwan, his presentation attracted other tourists, including a very senior veteran in tears.   Professor Liu argued that during the Cold War, Taiwan’s military value secured American economic aid. IMAS students then visited Shimen Dam, where Harley Ganna indicated that the reservoir project was initiated during the Japanese colonial era, but was realized by American aid during the early 1960s. She said there were so many American engineers that a local road was nicknamed American Road, which now became its official name “Meiguo Road (美國路).”  In addition to introducing the reservoir, Harley Ganna was also responsible for selecting a big reservoir fish, which later was cooked in five different methods for lunch. After the lunch, students went to Taoyuan Sake Brewery. Faith Woods indicated that this Brewery was a light industry established in 1915 during Japanese colonization and witnessed Taiwan’s alcohol monopoly policy in the past century.  Students found that this study trip taught them more than they learned in classrooms, and looked forward to next event. Director Liu explained that IMAS used to hold joint workshops with other universities regularly, and in 2020, went as far as Matsu Islands where National Ocean University was located. Due to the Pandemic, this is the first time since March 2021 joint workshop with Tamkang University. IMAS will continue to seek for cooperation with other universities, within or out of Taiwan, for academic exchanges and local cultural immersion.

On September 11th, the International Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies (IMAS) at National Chengchi University (NCCU) hosted a Chinese and Western buffet luncheon to welcome new students. In addition to the dean and director encouraging students to seize the opportunity to study in Taiwan and expand their knowledge horizons, two second-year American students, Paula Tolton and Josiah Spain, shared the challenges that foreign students may encounter when integrating into the campus and society. They also mentioned that IMAS frequently organizes inter-school exchanges, allowing students not only to exchange knowledge with students from other schools but also to gain a better understanding of Taiwan. The first inter-school exchange of this semester took place in cooperation with the Department of Medical Humanities and Social Medicine, College of Medicine at National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) on September 15th. As NCKU is located in southern Taiwan, students gathered at Taipei Main Station on the evening of September 14th and took the train to Tainan. Tainan is Taiwan’s oldest city, and taking advantage of this opportunity, students also visited historical sites and relics related to Taiwan’s development. On the morning of September 15th, IMAS students first visited Fort Zeelandia, which was built in 1624. Ally Wu explained the history of the Dutch East India Company and early colonization in Tainan. The second stop was Eternal Golden Castle, built in 1874 to defend Tainan against Japanese invasions. Winnie Chow, from Hong Kong, elaborated on the history of Chinese immigration and Qing Dynasty governance. Participants of this workshop also visited the National Museum of Taiwan History to gain a clearer understanding of Taiwan’s development from prehistoric times to the contemporary era. Most students and faculty members had never seen Taiwan’s history explained three-dimensionally in such a comprehensive way before. In the afternoon of the 15th, the NCKU-IMAS workshop was held in the 1st auditorium of the College of Medicine. Hsiu-yun Wang, Professor and Director of the Department of Medical Humanities and Social Medicine at NCKU, opened the meeting and welcomed IMAS visitors. The keynote speaker was Professor Scott Simon from the School of Sociological and Anthropological Studies at Ottawa University. His topic was “Tainan, Taiwan, and an Integrated World Society,” emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary cooperation between different academic perspectives. The first session of this workshop was chaired by Paola Carollo, an Italian PhD candidate currently studying at Laval University. NCKU PhD student Hsiaoting Huang presented “Pencil as Weapon: A Study of Political Cartoons in Puck Magazines (1877-1918).” Two IMAS American students, Stephen Fletes and Josiah Spain, then presented “Frank Goodnow: (un)making the Republic of China” and “Japan’s Role in Shaping the US’s Shift on China.” The commentator was Nnanna Arukwe, a senior lecturer from the Department of Sociology and Anthropology at the University of Nigeria, who provided feedback on the papers. The second session of this workshop was chaired by Xu Xinyue, a PhD candidate from the People’s Republic of China, currently studying at NCCU. NCKU MA student Chunglun Liao presented “Challenging Genetic Determinism: A Study of Stephen Jay Gould’s Scientific Rhetoric.” IMAS American student Tobiass Larkin, and Thai student Natcha Lee, presented “Examining Regional Revitalization Policies in Japan and Taiwan” and “Digital Social Movement of the New Second Generation in Taiwan,” respectively. The commentator was Richard Atimniraye Nyelade, a lecturer from Ottawa University, who offered perspectives on their studies. In closing remarks, Professor Joel Stocker, an anthropologist at NCKU, and Professor Antonio Cheung from the Institute of Pharmacology and Section Chief at NCKU’s Office of International Affairs, both stated that this workshop was very successful because sharing research in the social sciences and humanities with the College of Medicine was a new initiative. They welcomed more exchanges with IMAS. On the morning of the 16th, the students visited the Salt Industry Museum in Qigu. On the way there, IMAS Korean student Jieun Lee explained the changes in the global salt market and salt industry in Taiwan. Another reason for visiting Qigu was to learn about Professor Scott Simon’s research in the area. The students were not only amazed by his ability to connect the local bird species with the local social changes but also admired his ability to live in the hot and humid climate of Tainan’s rural areas without relying on any air conditioning. The IMAS group took a boat trip to explore the oyster fields in the lagoons, gaining an understanding of how this fishing village utilizes the ocean to develop diverse industries. The highlight of this tour was that all participants enjoyed a lunch of unlimited grilled oysters in the harbor. After bidding farewell to Professor Scott Simon, who had to rush to attend a temple fair in Qigu, the students took a train back to Taipei. IMAS Director Philip Hsiaopong Liu pointed out that the learning environment doesn’t necessarily have to be confined to the campus. Students who venture outside of Taipei can quickly gain new insights into the economy, politics, society, and even international relations. Cross-campus exchanges and cultural immersion in Taiwan are essential features of IMAS. International students are welcomed to experience this unique style of learning.

國際合作發展基金會和政治大學社會科學學院於6月簽署合作協議，推動校園大使海外見習計畫，並於（今）29日舉行「我的國合會見習日記」實境節目發布會，節目記錄政治大學國家發展研究所研究生楊珮祿及來自波蘭的政治大學碩士生孟安桐（Antoni Mazek）2名校園大使在史瓦帝尼的援外見習任務，以及和當地人民的互動交流。 國際合作發展基金會副秘書長史立軍到場參加影片發布儀式，他表示，國合會和政大首創校園大使見習計畫，邀學生實地體驗援外工作，讓國際事務從教科書上的名詞變成親身參與的動詞；國合會更採實境節目拍攝模式，以貼近生活的方式，真實呈現援外工作給大眾。 史立軍提到，校園大使親自體驗國合會在史瓦帝尼的援外計畫，如婦女微型企業輔導能力提升計畫、代謝性慢性病防治體系強化計畫、養豬產業提升計畫、新興果樹產銷輔導計畫等；國合會也把見習生體驗駐外技術團的工作規劃成5集節目，11月15日在國合會YouTube頻道播出。 政治大學國家發展研究所研究生楊珮祿分享心得時表示，自己原本就對援外工作感興趣，藉由這次見習，更深入瞭解國際合作和援助，涵蓋領域更是多元，包括職業技能檢定或提升當地人對高血壓和糖尿病的意識，並親自感受到計畫的實際成效，例如果樹計畫幫助當地農民能有穩定收入。 來自波蘭的政治大學碩士生孟安桐（Antoni Mazek）則分享，見習計畫每天行程都很緊湊，經常要到不同地點參與援外計畫體驗，但也藉此瞭解到國合會如何幫助當地人，雖然有些西方國家也會提供史瓦帝尼經費補助，台灣卻是從農業、醫療等不同面向，鼓勵並幫助當地慢慢發展成長。

IMAS-NTOU Workshop for Ocean Development and Regional Revitalization Inspires Collaboration for the Future. During the weekend of May 22-23, National Chengchi University (NCCU) students participated in a workshop titled “Ocean Development and Regional Revitalization: An International Exchange” at the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology (NMMST) in Keelung. Participants in this workshop included 7 students from NCCU in the International Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies (IMAS), 3 students from National Taiwan Ocean University (NTOU), and 3 NMMST interns from Malaysian University of Sabah that contributed in this cross-cultural and interdisciplinary exchange. The Director of NTOU’s General Education Center Dr. Lin Tai-Yuan opened with an introduction and regards from NTOU’s President Chang Ching Fong and also gave gifts to IMAS students for their attendance in this workshop. Dr. Shih Tung-Wei, the Director of NMMST’s Department of Industry-Academia Cooperation, gave the keynote speech on the evolution of the former coal-fired power plant and landfill site into today’s beautiful coastal town. NTOU student presentations were presented in English with topics on the development of Keelung’s tourism, the strategic differences of regional revitalization between Taiwan and Japan and the yacht industry in Taiwan and its role in today’s global yacht market. For IMAS students, all presentations were given in English and one in Chinese. Students reviewed topics on trade strategies and naval architecture technologies of since the 16th century and analyzed those impacts on European expansion in Asia, introduced sea turtle protection in Churaumi Suizokukan, and finally examined the creation of Marine Protected Areas in Korea. Students from all institutions raised questions throughout the workshop from NMMST’s sea laboratory to historical issues in Taiwan and local government initiatives on revitalization projects. Despite issues with weather and various cancellations of activities, IMAS students were able to enjoy local seaweed cuisine and learn about the cultural industry of Keelung by visiting the historic copper factory and gold mine museums as well as experienced a train ride on the railroad that was once used for a Japanese power plant’s coal supply. NTOU team leader Professor Tseng Sheng-wen hopes to continue this bilateral cooperation, IMAS and NTOU are eager to hold the next work shop at the NTOU branch in Matsu, one of Taiwan’s outlying islands. Philip Hsiaopong Liu, the IMAS director, says that IMAS is designed to train multidisciplinary talents. Foreign students in this program should learn knowledge not only from books, but also from Taiwanese society. For this purpose, IMAS will continue to arrange academic exchanges and cultural activities with academic institutions around Taiwan.

Ambassador Mohamed Hagi, who just arrived in Taiwan, visited the College of Social Sciences (CSS) at National Chengchi University (NCCU) on September 24 where he gave a speech titled “Survivability of Somaliland: State-Building, Democratisation and Taiwan-Somaliland Relationship” in the International Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies (IMAS). This speech gathered an audience of over 50 people from on and off campus. IMAS appreciates Ambassador Hagi’s visit and looks forward to further academic cooperation and exchanges between Taiwan and Somaliland.  Somaliland’s 3-person delegation from the embassy visited Dr. Chiang Min-hsiu, the Dean of CSS, upon their arrival. The Dean asked many questions regarding Somaliland’s needs in higher education. In addition to explaining the educational system and the targeted countries for Somaliland’s youth to study abroad in, Ambassador Hagi said that the CSS is the first academic institute he visits since he arrived in Taiwan, and he hoped that this esteemed institution would consider admission applications from Somaliland.  Ambassador Hagi began his IMAS speech after his meeting with the Dean. As a highly-educated PhD candidate in the UK, his speech was full of academic inspiration. He began his speech by reviewing the history of his country from colonialism in Africa and British Somaliland’s response to anti-colonialism during the 1960s. Based on Africa’s development in the past century, Somaliland, when it regained its statehood in the 1990s, decided to establish this newly born nation with a solid democratic foundation. Democratization is not only helpful to Somaliland’s international relations, but also the basis of its friendship with Taiwan. Ambassador Hagi’s speech received many responses from the attendees. For example, Liu Shih-chieh, director of International Affairs for the Taiwanese New Power Party, asked him which side, Taiwan or Somaliland, initiated their bilateral relations. Zou Zhongsu, a PhD student from China, inquired about Hargaysa’s relations with Beijing. Ambassador Hagi answered all the questions he was asked before taking group photos with the audience after the session ended.  The lunch was hosted by May-shine Lin, Distinguished Professor and Vice President for International Affairs, NCCU, and Ching-ping Tang, Associate Dean for International Affairs, CSS. Ambassador Hagi was very interested in international students in NCCU. Julian Tash, the class leader of second year IMAS students, gave Ambassador Hagi details of international students’ daily lives based on his experiences. After lunch, all participants enjoyed their tea time in the CSS lounge for international students and continued to discuss post-colonial issues in both Somaliland and Taiwan. As a Muslim, Ambassador Hagi also visited Muslim Prayer Room, and was surprised that the CSS takes care of the religious needs of international students.  Philip Hsiaopong Liu, professor and IMAS director, points out that Taiwan has had almost no official links with Eastern Africa ever since Ethiopia terminated their bilateral relations in late 1960s. Mutual recognition between Taiwan and Somaliland provides an excellent opportunity for Taiwan to understand this region. As for IMAS students, Ambassador Hagi’s visit was a great opportunity for them to understand a link between Africa and the Asia-Pacific. This speech effectively extends the international perspectives of students and teachers, and IMAS will continue to arrange similar events.

國合會和政大合作，遴選2名校園大使前往史瓦帝尼見習援外任務，並拍攝實境節目，真實呈現援外工作內容給大眾，校園大使也解鎖首次到非洲和養豬場等成就。 國際合作發展基金會和政治大學社會科學學院於6月簽署合作協議，推動校園大使海外見習計畫，並於今天舉行「我的國合會見習日記」實境節目發布會，節目記錄下2名校園大使在史瓦帝尼的援外見習任務，以及和當地人民的互動交流。 國際合作發展基金會副秘書長史立軍表示，國合會和政大首創校園大使見習計畫，邀學生實地體驗援外工作，讓國際事務從教科書上的名詞變成親身參與的動詞；國合會更採實境節目拍攝模式，以貼近生活的方式，真實呈現援外工作給大眾。 史立軍提到，校園大使親自體驗國合會在史瓦帝尼的援外計畫，如婦女微型企業輔導能力提升計畫、代謝性慢性病防治體系強化計畫、養豬產業提升計畫、新興果樹產銷輔導計畫等；國合會也把見習生體驗駐外技術團的工作規劃成5集節目，11月15日在國合會YouTube頻道播出。 政治大學國家發展研究所研究生楊珮祿指出，自己原本就對援外工作感興趣，藉由這次見習，更深入瞭解國際合作和援助，涵蓋領域更是多元，包括職業技能檢定或提升當地人對高血壓和糖尿病的意識，並親自感受到計畫的實際成效，例如果樹計畫幫助當地農民能有穩定收入。 首次到非洲的楊珮祿坦言，原本想像史瓦帝尼可能跟東非或肯亞一樣，在路上能見到長頸鹿或大象，但到了史瓦帝尼才發現，當地建有高速公路，也有超市等生活機能據點；自己也透過和當地人交流，建立國民之間的友誼，更親眼見到援外人員的工作和生活，激發自己未來更有投入的動機。 來自波蘭的政治大學碩士生孟安桐（Antoni Mazek）分享，見習計畫每天行程都很緊湊，經常要到不同地點參與援外計畫體驗，但也藉此瞭解到國合會如何幫助當地人，雖然有些西方國家也會提供史瓦帝尼經費補助，台灣卻是從農業、醫療等不同面向，鼓勵並幫助當地慢慢發展成長。 透過此次見習計畫，孟安桐說，自己解鎖許多「第一次」，例如第一次去非洲、第一次去養豬場等，跳脫以往舒適圈後，在當地看到醫療設備和藥物的不足，醫療環境亟待改善，而藉由養豬計畫，讓當地能滿足對豬肉的需求，對農民生活有很大幫助，感受到台灣對友邦的協助。 source: here  

The College of Social Sciences (CSS) is the largest college at National Chengchi University, frequently hosting diverse international academic events. Students enrolled in CSS’s International Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific Studies (IMAS) thus have the unique opportunity to engage with scholars from around the world. These interactions often occur during lunchtime, allowing IMAS students to savor a variety of cuisines while studying hard on campus. When four scholars from Fulbright University in Vietnam (FUV) visited, IMAS students indulged in Sichuan dishes such as Mapo Tofu, Kung Pao Chicken, Stir-Fried Beef with Scallions, and Fish-Fragrant Eggplant. During the visit of faculty and students from the Graduate School of Public Administration at the National Institute of Development Administration in Thailand (NIDA), IMAS students sampled seafood like sautéed prawns and fried squid, along with Thai-style roasted chicken and Taiwanese Three-Cup Chicken, offering participants a taste of different flavors from Taiwan and Thailand. For the arrival of six scholars from Indonesia’s Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University, considering dietary restrictions and the fact that many students had classes afterward, vegetarian lunchboxes were provided. However, not every academic exchange involves a proper meal; sometimes, there are different styles of meals as well. When Professor Henning Klöter from Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin delivered an afternoon lecture, students enjoyed afternoon tea snacks. In the most recent visit by Dafydd Fell from the School of Oriental and African Studies at the University of London, his lecture was scheduled for noon. Since many students had classes in the early afternoon, they enjoyed a lunch of Long Sushi. Later that evening, after classes, students gathered in front of a Taoist temple for a cultural immersion event. Although roast pig was the featured indigenous meal, considering various dietary restrictions, IMAS also prepared chicken, and fish, along with sweet potatoes, bell peppers, bamboo shoots, and bamboo tube rice. Professor Dafydd Fell was the first to taste the pork, and Mrs. Fell was the first to try bamboo tube rice. While most students can savor diverse cuisine in IMAS, second-year Israeli student Itamar Baum is an exception. He is currently in Gaza, relying on his military MRE (Meal, Ready-to-Eat) every day. He fondly reminisces about the crocodile meat he enjoyed at the 2023 School Anniversary BBQ. IMAS sincerely wishes him safety and looks forward to his return, hoping he can resume his studies with enthusiasm while once again enjoying our diverse food offerings.

美國哥倫比亞大學東亞研究所（Weatherhead East Asian Institute, WEAI）黎安友教授（Prof. Andrew J. Nathan）與孔邁隆教授（Prof. Myron L. Cohen）7月12日蒞臨政大，以「臺灣在東亞及東亞研究中的重要性」（Taiwan’s Significance in East Asia and East Asian Studies）為題進行演講，探討包括臺灣的族群與身份認同、臺灣民主化後的政治態度變化，以及臺美東南亞的多方關係等課題。今年適逢WEAI 75週年，WEAI所長阮連項（Prof. Lien-Hang T. Nguyen）特地率團前往東亞各大城市進行「2024夏季亞洲城市學術之旅」，政大是臺北站的重點交流對象之一，李蔡彥校長及社科院楊婉瑩院長皆出面親自迎接貴賓到來。本次活動為政大社科院主辦為30週年院慶系列活動，國發所及亞太碩（IMAS）共同合辦，特別邀請哥倫比亞大學校友、現為臺北市政府研考會主委及本校選研中心、政治系合聘教授俞振華返校主持。即便在暑假期間，仍吸引校內外60餘位師生前來一睹大師風采。 社科院楊婉瑩院長在開幕致詞時表示，哥倫比亞大學及政大皆致力於東亞研究。哥大東亞所成立於二戰後1949年，而政大創建於中國內戰初期其後於1949在臺復校，皆深受東亞戰爭歷史的影響，更難得的是，黎安友教授及孔邁隆教授兩位講者與臺灣淵源深厚，其著作影響深遠，這次來訪政大，實爲政大師生的榮幸。WEAI阮連項所長不僅是哥大歷史系副教授，也是越南戰爭與全球冷戰研究專家，阮所長表示臺灣乃地緣政治中心區域之一，不僅樂見臺越雙方經貿關係日益密切，也希望日後能和政大持續進行學術合作。 哥大政治系黎安友教授是知名的中國研究漢學家，指導和影響諸多當代華人學者，包括臺灣學界和政界許多名人。黎安友表示其1963年首次訪臺，1967年再次前來臺灣撰寫博士論文時，就積極研究臺灣政治，包括臺灣政治生態與兩岸關係。後來因在中研院近代史研究所工作，在機緣巧合之下接收了《中華民國史事日誌》原稿。黎安友曾與我國許多學者合作過，近年曾與已故的朱雲漢教授等人合作進行「亞洲民主動態調查」（Asian Barometer Survey）。黎安友也以政大選舉研究中心發表的「臺灣民衆臺灣人/中國人認同趨勢分佈（1992~2023）」爲例，該報告不偏不倚地反映臺灣政治認同變化，讚揚臺灣學術研究的透明與誠信度。 哥大人類系孔邁隆榮譽教授，是首位研究美濃客家族群的外籍學者，1962年首次來臺的他，與美濃客家族群連結甚深，不僅本人講得一口流利客語，2016年曾獲頒一等客家事務專業獎章。孔邁隆自清朝時期的「内地十八省」談起，講解臺灣的歷史定位與建省歷程，並以臺灣客家人為例，說明臺灣客家人的身份認同與統治者、其他漢族認知的異同之處。 演講結束後的問答座談，與會學者踴躍發問，尤其環繞著「是否有臺灣學？」此一主題，討論臺灣研究的主體性。楊婉瑩在閉幕時表示，臺灣研究牽涉文化、政治經濟諸多跨領域研究，英國倫敦大學亞非學院已設有「臺灣研究」學位學程，希望未來在不同國家，看見更多大學設立臺灣研究相關學程，並積極推動「臺灣學」的進程。