NCKU signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) entitled ‘‘NCKU-Butterfly Program: international talent cultivation’’ with CSC STEEL at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Malaysia on Sep.1, 2023, to strengthen partnerships between Taiwan and Malaysia, by collaboration among Taiwan, Malaysian academia and industry, and alumni associations of Taiwan universities, Malaysia. The MOU signing ceremony was witnessed by Ambassador Phoebe Yeh, the representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Malaysia; other participants of the ceremony included Dr. Hong-Chen Chen (Executive Vice President & President of OIA, NCKU) and Di-Neng Zheng (President of Alumni Cheng Kung University of Taiwan in Malaysia).

As an international talent cultivation platform, the NCKU-Butterfly Program creates a win-win situation through academia-industry collaboration, and with the NCKU Alumni Association playing a critical role in matchmaking, the program provides opportunities for post-graduation employment at CSC STEEL and summer internships for overseas students of NCKU, perpetuating a virtuous circle among academia, industry and alumni associations of Taiwan universities, Malaysia.’’, stated Ambassador Phoebe Yeh.

During the signing ceremony, Prof. Meng-Ru Shen (the President of NCKU) pointed out that universities, serving as academic hubs for outstanding talents, carry on the mission to pass on knowledge to students and conduct research. In addition, it requires universities’ efforts in cross-domain integration (e.g., cross-college collaboration or collaboration with industry) to achieve breakthroughs and guide graduates to contribute to society. President Meng-Ru Shen perceives NCKU & CSC STEEL as setting an example of academia-industry collaboration, also encouraging universities to promote higher education accessibility and fulfill university social responsibility.

Mr. Bin-Dong Qiu, the Managing Director of CSC STEEL said, “Enterprises and universities are working towards the common goals of nurturing highly professional talents, propelling social development and enhancing social competitiveness. CSC STEEL looks forward to offering resources such as internship & employment opportunities, financial aid, and expert guidance to ensure a smooth & effective collaboration for expected achievements.’’