Office of International Affairs of National Cheng Kung University (NCKU OIA) launched the "Global Perspective Lectures" (GPL) in the Fall of 2024 to cultivate young leaders with an international outlook.  The lectures cover key topics such as international affairs, communication skills, cross-cultural awareness, globalization, and global citizenship, aiming to enhance students’ competencies for engaging with the global community.  The series also encourages participation from international students, fostering multicultural exchange within the university.

Mr. Ichwan Josesoef, Head of Tourism and Transportation at the Indonesian Economic and Trade Office to Taipei, Leading a Seminar on Taiwan-Indonesia Relations.

The GPL series first focused on Southeast Asia and Europe.  The opening lecture featured Mr. Ichwan Josesoef, Head of Tourism and Transportation at the Indonesian Economic and Trade Office to Taipei, who explored Taiwan-Indonesia economic relations and cultural exchanges.  Ms. Eileen Chu from the Taiwan Digital Diplomacy Association shared insights on the "Taiwan Corner" initiative in Vietnam, promoting Taiwan to a global audience through digital diplomacy.

Ms. Eileen Chu Discusses "Digital Diplomacy" as a Possible Pathway for Taiwan to Overcome Diplomatic Challenges.

Turning to Europe, Professor Chao-Ching Fu of NCKU’s Department of Architecture, recipient of the National Cultural Award, discussed sustainable heritage preservation strategies, focusing on European case studies.  Ms. Claudia Finner from Darmstadt University led five German language sessions with the support of German exchange students, providing valuable speaking practice.   She also led the workshop on ''Intercultural Communication,'' with 40 students participating and enhancing their understanding of cultural issues and communication skills.

Prof. Chao-Ching Fu, Emeritus Professor of the Department of Architecture, Highlights the Importance of Applying New Ideas to Heritage Conservation.

Sören Petersen, an exchange student from University of Tübingen in Germany, shares observations on Taiwan-Germany cultural differences during the Intercultural Communication Workshop.

The GPL series also aimed to inspire students to explore international opportunities.  Dr. Ching-Fen Shen, Director of the Pediatric Infectious Disease Department at NCKU Hospital, shared her own research experience to encourage students to step out of their comfort zones, while Ms. Tracie Chen from Fulbright Taiwan offered insights on preparing for English application materials.  NCKU OIA also co-hosted a volunteer seminar with AIESEC, highlighting summer volunteer experiences in India and Nepal.

Group Photo of Participants at the Overseas Volunteer Seminar.

With six lectures, one workshop, and five language sessions, the Fall 2024 GPL series empowered 552 participants in total.  NCKU OIA plans to organize dynamic GPL series that inspires students to confidently embrace global opportunities in the future.