NUK Sustainability Report

2026-08-12

The Office of International Affairs at the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) hosted the 2026 NUK Summer School from August 3 to 10, welcoming 26 students from sister universities in Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, and the Philippines. NUK students from various departments also joined the program, creating an eight-day international learning experience featuring sustainability, artificial intelligence (AI), cultural activities, and city visits.

The opening ceremony was hosted by Academic Vice President Hsiu-Hui Chuang, who welcomed the international participants on behalf of the university and encouraged them to broaden their global perspectives while gaining a deeper understanding of Taiwan’s higher education and sustainability achievements.

This year’s program focused on AI applications, sustainable development, and green campus practices. Executive Vice President Hsing-Hao Wu delivered a keynote lecture on the application of AI in higher education and emerging ESG trends. Distinguished Professor Hung-Yin Lin from the Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering led an essential oil workshop introducing participants to Taiwan’s plant resources and concepts of green sustainability.

During a campus sustainability tour, students also explored NUK’s green buildings, ecological environment, and climate resilience initiatives, gaining first-hand insight into how sustainability is implemented across the university.

Dean of International Affairs Hsing-Ju Lin stated that the Summer School is designed not only to bring students from sister universities to the NUK campus, but also to create meaningful connections among young people from different countries through academic learning, cultural experiences, and student interaction.

By incorporating themes such as AI, sustainable development, and Kaohsiung’s local culture, the program enables international students to experience NUK, Taiwan, and Kaohsiung from multiple perspectives while further strengthening partnerships with sister universities.

The Chinese-language courses incorporated interactive games and scenario-based learning, allowing international students to practice everyday Mandarin in a relaxed environment and interact naturally with NUK students.

Cultural activities included Chinese zodiac string-art creations and DIY cuttlefish ball making, giving participants hands-on opportunities to experience Taiwan’s cultural diversity and local traditions.

Off-campus visits included the Pier-2 Art Center, Cijin, Shoushan Zoo, and Hong Yu Foods Tourism Factory. Through these excursions, students explored Kaohsiung’s maritime culture, ecological conservation efforts, cultural and creative industries, and distinctive local character.

The activities offered participants a deeper understanding of Kaohsiung as a maritime city rich in cultural heritage, innovative energy, and a strong commitment to sustainability. At the same time, students built cross-border friendships and created lasting memories through shared experiences.

Throughout the program, NUK students from different academic departments served as student mentors, accompanying international participants during classes and daily activities. Their involvement helped promote intercultural understanding and friendship while extending international exchange beyond the classroom into everyday life.

Following the eight-day program, the closing ceremony was hosted by Dean of International Affairs Hsing-Ju Lin. Participants received certificates of completion, watched a highlights video documenting the program, and exchanged thank-you cards before saying goodbye, bringing the 2026 NUK Summer School to a meaningful conclusion.

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@Office of International Affairs | Activities