MoU exchange with National Kaohsiung Normal University

Prof Goi (right) and Prof Li displaying the signed documents

UTAR and the National Kaohsiung Normal University (NKNU) exchanged a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on 26 February 2024 at UTAR Sungai Long Campus. This marked the second occasion for both universities to gather to formalise their partnership through an MoU ceremony.

The signatories were UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat and NKNU President Prof Dr Wang Cheng-Yen. The exchange of MoU, however, was carried out by UTAR Vice President for Internationalisation and Academic Development Ir Prof Dr Goi Bok Min and NKNU Vice President Prof Dr Li Jau-Rong, who represented Prof Dato’ Ewe and Prof Wang respectively.

The MoU aimed to set the stage for a broad spectrum of transformative initiatives between the institutions. These initiatives will include international collaborative research projects, talent development programmes, as well as staff and student exchange. Additionally, the partnership will facilitate joint seminars, conferences and workshops, aimed at fostering academic exchange and collaboration.

Prof Goi said, “We are confident that this agreement will strengthen the bond between our institutions and foster even deeper academic exchanges. By providing expanded learning platforms for students and increased opportunities for scholarly dialogue among faculties, we aim to propel academic advancement together. Let us unite in our pursuit of knowledge and collaborative progress.”

Prof Li highlighted NKNU’s rich history, transformative journey and educational excellence, particularly in the field of education. She emphasised the institution’s commitment to providing students with diverse development opportunities through teacher training, expanding educational horizons and innovative programmes like management studies, and indigenous education. Inviting UTAR to join in the upcoming 70^th-anniversary celebration, she stressed the enduring partnerships with schools nationwide. Prof Li also extended an invitation for all to experience Kaohsiung’s natural beauty, encapsulating a spirit of collaboration and innovation between the institutions.

Also present at the MoU exchange ceremony were NKNU College of Continuing and Extension Education Dean Prof Dr Yao Tsun-Hsiung, Research Center for Southeast and South Asia Director and Institute of Hakka Culture Studies Director Prof Dr Lee Leong Sze and College of Continuing and Extension Education Planning Promotion Group Section Chief Prof Tsai Sungte.

They were warmly received by Institute of Chinese Studies (ICS) Dean Assoc Prof Dr Chong Siou Wei, ICS Deputy Dean for R&D and Postgraduate Programmes Assoc Prof Dr Chin Chong Foh, Office of International Affairs (OIA) Director Assoc Prof Dr Lai Soon Onn, OIA Deputy Director Dr Chen I-Chi and OIA Assistant Manager Ms Goo Yi Qun.

Discussion in progress

From left: Prof Tsai, Dr Chin, Dr Chen, Prof Goi, Prof Li, Dr Chong, Prof Yao and Prof Lee