In December after the signing ceremonies with three universities in Japan, US, and Australia respectively, the number of TKU sister universities reached exactly 100, setting a milestone for the university’s international academic exchange and international educational affairs. These three new universities are Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University (RAPU) of Japan, American University (AU) of the US, and University of Queensland (UQ) of Australia.
Dr. Tai Wan Chin, the Vice President for International Affairs, explained that although the university is proud of this record, it is more eager to ensure these alliances do not stay in name only. There should be more substantial and tangible exchanges on all levels, particularly that of the departmental.
These three new sister universities will begin several exchange programs with TKU soon. RAPU, which is situated in Beppu City on Kyushu Island and is the first university in Japan to offer bilingual (Japanese/English) courses, will receive exchange students from TKU in a semester or two. AU, which is located in Washington, D.C area, known for its Law School and International Relations programs, is only a stone throw away from the White House, has organized several joint conferences with TKU in recent years. It will consider developing joint-degree Master’s programs with TKU in the near future. Thanks to its geographical location and auspicious connections with local shakers and makers, it is one of the universities in the US favored by international students. As for UQ, it is located in Brisbane and is known for its research expertise and facilities. Its beautiful campus and excellent faculty members have attracted at least 6400 foreign students from 121 countries to study there. It will also organize joint degree programs with TKU, and is already negotiating with Tamkang’s College of Business for some possibilities.
To make TKU more international has always been the ultimate goal of his office, Dr. Tai maintains. Having substantial and concrete bilateral relations with the sister universities is crucial in realizing this goal, he reiterates. ( ~Ying-hsueh Hu )
