A Taiwan-based Mandarin scholarship program for students from the Czech Republic was launched by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and seven local universities Sept. 29 in Taipei City.
The program, which initially offer 50 spots, involves National Chengchi University in Taipei; Fu Jen Catholic University in New Taipei City; National Tsing Hua University in Hsinchu City, northern Taiwan; Providence University and Tunghai University in Taichung City, central Taiwan; National Cheng Kung University in Tainan City and National Sun Yat-sen University in Kaohsiung City, southern Taiwan; and the University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague.
MOFA Deputy Minister Harry Ho-jen Tseng said the program springboards off the success of the historic visit to Taiwan by Czech Republic Senate President Milos Vystrcil and his delegation. The ministry will continue working with all relevant parties to implement cooperation commitments while deepening friendship and expanding exchanges between the two sides, he added.
Echoing Tseng’s remarks, representatives of local universities urged more students from the EU member country to visit Taiwan and experience its rich culture and natural beauty. The program will enhance understanding and strengthen ties between the younger generations of both sides, they said.
Pavel Matejka, rector of UCTP and a member of Vystrcil-led group, praised the program and said it is expected to help lay the foundations for greater academic collaboration between Taiwan and the Czech Republic.
Vystrcil and the 90-strong delegation, including Prague Mayor Zdenek Hrib and members of the business, cultural, education and media sectors, were in Taiwan Aug. 30 to Sept. 4. The itinerary included meetings with President Tsai Ing-wen, Legislative Yuan President You Si-kun, Premier Su Tseng-chang, MOFA Minister Jaushieh Joseph Wu, Minister of Health and Welfare Chen Shih-chung and other senior government officials. (YCH-E)
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