The Taiwan Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC) regularly organizes the Overseas Youth Vocational Training Program to promote Taiwan’s high-quality vocational education and provide overseas Chinese youth with opportunities to acquire professional skills. National Pingtung University of Science and Technology (NPUST) arranged a Department of Plant Industry – Tropical Agriculture and Horticulture Program in the previous academic year to help these students master various techniques related to refined tropical agricultural production. On the morning of December 19th, a graduation ceremony was held for the students at the NPUST Big Data Center. Approximately 40 attendees, including graduates, parents, faculty, and current students, gathered to witness the occasion and support the students as they prepare to move to a new stage in life.
The ceremony opened with a retrospective video showcasing the graduates’ academic journey and daily life in Taiwan, evoking fond memories for everyone present. Following the video, the graduates entered the hall to enthusiastic applause. Dr. Ru-Chu Shih, Dean of the Office of International Affairs, delivered an address praising the students for their perseverance and hard work while studying away from home. He encouraged the graduates to continue honing their professional skills and to apply the things they’ve learned in Taiwan to their future careers and lives. Dr. Yu-Shen Liang, Director of the Department of Plant Industry, also encouraged the graduates to maintain their passion for learning and to keep a grounded attitude while bravely facing future challenges.
Dean Ru-Chu Shih personally presented the graduation certificates, and Director Yu-Shen Liang and Assistant Professor Wei-Chen Chen presented awards for Academic Excellence and Outstanding Conduct. Representing the graduates, Tan Yit Kai delivered a speech expressing gratitude for the teachers’ guidance and the companionship of his peers—also sharing his growth and achievements during his time in Taiwan. Representing the current students, Lam The Khang offered sincere blessings and the continuation of friendship as the torch was passed to the next class of students.
The ceremony concluded with a group photo of all faculty and students, followed by a graduation luncheon where graduates and families continued to bond with one another. For the students, the graduation ceremony not only symbolizes the completion of academic studies but also represents the professional strength and precious friendships they built during their time at NPUST. With a solid foundation in place, the students can now move on to the next chapter in their lives where they can apply their expertise, foster agricultural development between their home countries and Taiwan, and connect with the global community.
