On September 6, 2024, the Division of Study Abroad, Office of International Affairs (OIA) at National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) hosted the orientation for international exchange students of the 2024 Fall Semester. A total of 61 exchange students from 30 partner universities of 19 countries and 62 Campus-Linker, who are NCKU student volunteers,  attended the event.

Fall 2024 Exchange Student Orientation took place at NCKU Future Venue on September 6

NCKU Vice President for International Affairs, Chair Professor Sun-Yuan Hsieh, delivered a welcome message and emphasized the dedication to providing the most comprehensive and heartfelt student support services. “NCKU is not just a place of academic excellence,” said VPIA Hsieh, “We value the diversity and fosters a sense of belonging on our campus.” During the orientation, the three key speakers, Ms. Ann Yeh, the police Lieutenant Colonel from the Foreign Affairs Division of the Tainan City Police Department, and Ms. Lai, the Chief of Tainan City Government Tourism Bureau, and Ms. Nancy Yen, Licensed Counseling Psychologist from Counseling and Wellness Services Division of NCKU, offered valuable advice for the international students during their exchange in NCKU.

To further support international students and enhance cross-culture communication, the Division of Study Abroad held a special Mid-Autumn Festival barbecue on September 14 at the Qiaotou Sugar Refinery in Kaohsiung, invited all the exchange students and Campus-Linker volunteers to experience the traditional celebration in Taiwan. Participants enjoyed a variety of delicious grilled foods while engaging in activities that fostered interactions and cultural exchange among students from diverse backgrounds. The event also provided local students with an opportunity to connect with their international peers.

“We place a high value on the integration and development of our international students,” said Professor Shu-Ying Wang, the Director of the Division of Study Abroad. “By hosting such events, we offer them a deeper understanding of Taiwanese culture while promoting a welcoming campus environment.”

This event was a part of NCKU’s ongoing efforts to support international students and ensure they feel at home during their time in Taiwan. Future activities will be organized to continue building stronger connections and a sense of community among exchange students and Campus-Linker volunteers.  

Group photo taken at Qiaotou Sugar Industry Culture Park

Professor Shu-Ying Wang with students at the Mid-Autumn Festival barbecue event