SDG 3 Good Health And Well-Being
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- Professor Huang-Tz Ou from NCKU Pharmacy Wins the 113th Outstanding Scholar Award for Pharmaceutical Economics Research
Professor Huang-Tz Ou from NCKU’s Department of Pharmacy has won the 113th Outstanding Scholar Award from the Foundation for the Advancement of Outstanding Scholarship. She was recognized for her innovative project aimed at establishing the TPEvalue Research Center. The center focuses on optimizing health economic evaluations across the pharmaceutical reimbursement lifecycle, promoting value-based drug pricing, and applying big data to support National Health Insurance (NHI) policy decisions. As the first NCKU scholar to earn this honor, Professor Ou will receive funding to advance drug assessment methodologies, train talent, and foster sustainable healthcare management.- NCKU Interdisciplinary Team Wins First Prize in Student Design Competition at the 2025 IUPESM World Congress
An interdisciplinary student team from National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) won First Prize in the Student Design Competition at the 2025 IUPESM World Congress in Australia. They developed "VRMTFOA," an innovative system designed for post-stroke hemiplegia rehabilitation. By integrating virtual reality with attention-guided mechanisms and auditory feedback, the interactive platform overcomes traditional mirror therapy limitations. EEG trials confirmed that the system significantly boosts motor cortex activation and neural connectivity. Future plans involve integrating cloud-based remote monitoring to deliver accessible, high-quality home rehabilitation for patients with limited mobility.
- NCKU and CCU Collaborate on Pancreatic Cancer Research Published in a Top Journal
Researchers from National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) and National Chung Cheng University (CCU) discovered why KRAS mutations alone do not cause pancreatic cancer. Using AI big data and single-cell sequencing, the team found that KRAS-mutated cells naturally age and undergo cell death. However, the loss of the tumor suppressor gene DUSP2 enables these cells to survive. Chronic inflammation recruits macrophages that block DUSP2 expression and trigger the TIMP1-CD63 signaling pathway, giving cancer cells immune privilege to evade treatments and metastasize. Published in Molecular Cancer, these insights offer valuable targets for early detection and therapeutic strategies.
- NCKU Study: Asthmatic Children with More Exposure to Green Spaces and Less Air Pollution Have Healthier Nasal and Gut Microbiome
A pioneering study by National Cheng Kung University reveals that environmental exposure directly impacts the nasal and gut microbiomes of asthmatic children. Using Geo-AI and satellite data, researchers found that high air pollution reduces microbial diversity and increases harmful bacteria like Streptococcus. Conversely, greater exposure to residential green space fosters a healthier microbiome balance. This research provides crucial evidence for future environmental health policies and pediatric asthma prevention.- NCKU Study: Asthmatic Children with More Exposure to Green Spaces and Less Air Pollution Have Healthier Nasal and Gut Microbiome
A research team led by Chair Professor Chen-Sheng Yeh from NCKU's Department of Chemistry has developed an innovative method for early-stage cancer detection. The technique uses gold nanoparticles coated with an electroactive liposomal membrane derived from Shewanella oneidensis MR-1. These liposomes actively transfer electrons generated by cancer cell mitochondria to the gold nanoparticles, enabling active electron-driven chemical enhancement for precise Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) detection. This breakthrough provides a sensitive and reliable diagnostic tool, offering significant potential to improve early cancer diagnosis and targeted biomedical applications.
- NCKU Team Discovers New Way to Boost T Cell Immunotherapy, Published in Science Series Journal
A National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) research team led by Professors Yi-Ching Wang and Jan-Jong Hung discovered that the deubiquitinase USP24 stabilizes the PD-1 protein in T cells, driving tumor immune evasion. They developed a small-molecule inhibitor, USP24-i-101, which reduces PD-1 levels, restores T cell activity, and effectively targets cancer cells. In lung cancer mouse models, it surpassed CTLA-4 therapy and enhanced combined treatment efficacy by 1.5 times while combating drug resistance. Patented globally, this breakthrough offers a promising strategy for advanced immunotherapies and was published in *Science Advances*.
- NCKU and NCYU Research Team Uncovers How Nanoplastics Disrupt Gut Microbiota – Featured in Nature Communications
A research team led by NCKU Associate Professor Wei-Hsuan Hsu and NCYU Assistant Professor Bao-Hong Lee has uncovered how ultra-small nanoplastics disrupt gut microbiota. Their landmark study, featured in Nature Communications, reveals the underlying mechanisms of nanoplastic toxicity and its impact on microbial extracellular vesicles. The groundbreaking work earned the 2024 Future Tech Award from the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC).- NCKU CSIE & Harvard Reveal AI Diagnostic Bias, Featured as a Cover Article in Cell Reports Medicine
A collaborative study by NCKU CSIE and Harvard Medical School reveals hidden AI diagnostic bias in medical image interpretation. While AI is increasingly used by physicians to analyze pathological specimens, it does not treat all patients equally. The research introduces FAIR-Path, an innovative framework that outperforms existing methods in reducing demographic bias while preserving high accuracy. Featured as a cover article in Cell Reports Medicine, this breakthrough highlights the urgent need for equitable AI in healthcare.
- NCKU Professor Chung’s team has developed “NCKU Digital Pathology Imaging Platform” for practical application
Professor Pau-Choo Chung’s team at National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) developed the "NCKU Digital Pathology Imaging Platform". Overcoming traditional microscopy limits, this software lets physicians seamlessly view, zoom, and annotate high-resolution digital pathology images adhering to global format standards. NCKU became Taiwan’s first university team to establish a medical device software QMS and obtain a TFDA license for such technology, with plans for US FDA certification in 2025. The team also aims to integrate AI tumor models into the platform to enhance diagnostic precision globally.
- [USR Series Report] Stepping Out of the Medical Ivory Tower: NCKU Weaves a Holistic Care Network for "Bubble Dragon" Patients
National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) has launched an innovative University Social Responsibility (USR) project to build a holistic support network for patients with Epidermolysis Bullosa ("Bubble Dragon" disease). Beyond specialized medical treatment at NCKU Hospital, the initiative establishes Asia’s first "Bubble Dragon Home," introduces cross-disciplinary courses, and collaborates with social enterprises to commercialize patient artwork. This sustainable care model promotes economic independence and humanistic support for patients and families.- NCKU’s Geo-AI Team Wins Highway Bureau Award, Partners for AI Health Navigation
NCKU's "Geo-AI Clean Air Route" team won first prize in the social category at the Highway Bureau's inaugural Data Innovation Application Competition. The team's innovative AI-driven solution optimizes travel routes to minimize personal air pollution exposure, effectively merging geospatial data with environmental health applications to foster safer, cleaner daily commutes.
- NCKU Team Discovers New Way to Boost T Cell Immunotherapy, Published in Science Series Journal
On December 20, 2025, National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) hosted the final exhibition for its cross-disciplinary course, "Integrated Elderly Care and Social Design," in Tainan's East District. Co-taught by Dr. Chieh-Hsiu Liu and Professor Chia-Han Yang, the course brought together 22 students from medicine, design, and humanities to address key aging issues, including hospital discharge transitions, social prescriptions, and community co-living. The students presented five innovative solutions—such as gamified training platforms and health passbooks—offering fresh, human-centered perspectives to enhance Taiwan's future elderly care ecosystem.
- 【94th Anniversary】NCKU Sports Event “Mixed Team Relay Race” Kicks Off on the 15th — 1,600 Faculty and Students, 80 Teams Run with Full Energy
To mark its 94th anniversary in 2025—designated as "NCKU Sports Year"—National Cheng Kung University expanded its highly acclaimed Mixed Team Relay Race. The event attracted around 1,600 faculty members and students across 80 teams, featuring preliminary rounds held over five consecutive days starting October 15. By encouraging cross-departmental and mixed-gender participation, the competition aims to boost physical fitness, foster interdisciplinary teamwork, and strengthen community spirit while supporting Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being).- 【94th Anniversary】 Anniversary Themed Book Fair Series: “The Failed Laboratory” – Exploring the Multiple Meanings of Failure
To celebrate its 94th anniversary, National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) hosted "The Failed Laboratory" book fair series from October 27, 2025, to January 31, 2026. Co-organized by the NCKU Library, the Starry Sky Maker Lab, and the Student Affairs Office, the event aims to reshape students' perspectives on failure and support mental health. Featuring keynote lectures, workshops, film screenings, and four interactive exhibition zones, the series provides a safe, supportive space for students to reflect on setbacks, embrace vulnerability, and view personal challenges with empathy, self-compassion, and a broader long-term perspective.- NCKU Medicine and ASUS Unveil AISVision Medical Imaging Center
The NCKU College of Medicine established the "AISVision Intelligent Medical Imaging Innovation Center" in collaboration with ASUS. The initiative was marked by a donation and unveiling ceremony featuring Dean Yan-Shen Shan and ASUS Global Vice President Chuan-Te Chang. This partnership leverages advanced AI vision technology to advance medical imaging research, enhance diagnostic accuracy, and foster healthcare innovation.
- NCKU Inaugurates “Small Animal MRI Core Facility and the College of Medicine Neuroscience Research Center” to Strengthen Biomedical Research and Industry-Academia Collaboration in Southern Taiwan
National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) has established a Small Animal MRI Core Facility and the Neuroscience Research Center within its College of Medicine. Unveiled on June 30 at the Biomedical Excellence Building, these facilities bolster fundamental and clinical neuroscience research while fostering industry-academia collaboration in Southern Taiwan. The center integrates multidisciplinary expertise—spanning preclinical models, neuroimaging, and clinical applications—to advance brain disorder treatments and innovative biomedical technologies. By serving as a critical platform for translational medicine, NCKU aims to accelerate research outcomes into clinical practice and elevate the region's biomedical industry.
- President Lai Attends Groundbreaking of NCKU Shalun Hospital, Advancing Taiwan’s National Healthcare Development
The National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) Shalun Hospital held its groundbreaking ceremony in Tainan, led by Taiwan President Lai Ching-te. Serving as the flagship project of the Shalun Medical Services and Innovation Park, the 664-bed smart hospital and Children's Medical Center aim to improve healthcare access in southern Taiwan. Scheduled for completion in 2030, the facility will integrate artificial intelligence, precision medicine, and cloud systems to boost clinical efficiency and balance regional resources.- NCKU Office for Health Service and Digital Innovation and ITOCHU Forge Strategic Partnership in Kobe to Advance Smart Healthcare Innovation
NCKU’s Health Service and Digital Innovation Promotion Office, alongside ITOCHU Corporation, visited Japan’s Kobe Biomedical Innovation Cluster (KBIC) from March 12 to 15. The delegation aimed to examine KBIC’s ecosystem, promote smart healthcare collaboration, and foster international biotechnology development. Key engagements included discussions with the Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation at Kobe (FBRI) on AI healthcare, medical devices, and clinical translation. This visit lays the groundwork for future Taiwan-Japan academic, clinical, and industrial partnerships.
- NCKU Sports Year Kicks Off with the Thrilling “Mixed Relay Race”
National Cheng Kung University kicked off its "NCKU Sports Year" with an exciting "Mixed Relay Race," bringing together 28 teams of students, faculty, and staff. To foster interdisciplinary connection and team spirit, each 20-member team was required to represent at least three different colleges. President Meng-Ru Shen attended both the preliminary and final rounds to show his strong support, personally firing the starting gun and presenting awards. The event received enthusiastic praise from participants for promoting health, cross-college camaraderie, and campus unity, with team "Wind-like Pig" taking home the championship title.
- The 114th National Intercollegiate Athletic Games Torch Relay Reaches NCKU on April 11.
On April 11, the torch relay for the 114th National Intercollegiate Athletic Games reached National Cheng Kung University (NCKU). Vice President Yuh-Neu Chen welcomed the flame from host school Chang Jung Christian University, highlighting that athletic dedication reflects a nation's strength and resilience. Student-athletes carried the torch through the campus, symbolizing legacy and unity. Scheduled from April 27 to May 2, the Games will see NCKU competing across 13 sports disciplines. The university encourages its student-athletes to challenge their limits, showcase sportsmanship, and aim for excellence throughout the upcoming athletic competition.- NCKU Soccer Team Claims 5th Place in National Division I — Best Record in Team History with Sports Science Support
The National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) soccer team delivered a historic performance in the 2025 University Football League by securing 5th place in National Division I, marking the best record in the program's history. Featuring a robust player lineup, the team attributed its outstanding achievement to the integration of modern sports science support. This scientific approach played a crucial role in enhancing player performance, optimizing training strategies, and maintaining overall physical conditioning throughout the competitive season, ultimately paving the way for NCKU's unprecedented success on the national stage.
- NCKU triumphs at 2025 National Intercollegiate Athletic Games:9 Gold, 14 Silver, 20 Bronze, Double Gold in Badminton Team Events
The National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) athletic delegation delivered an outstanding performance at the 2025 National Intercollegiate Athletic Games, securing 9 gold, 14 silver, and 20 bronze medals. This represents a 3-medal increase in golds compared to the previous year. Highlight achievements include double gold victories by both men's and women's badminton teams in the general group, along with gold medals in women's soft tennis team events, table tennis doubles, and the women's 4×100-meter freestyle swimming relay. These results highlight NCKU's significant progress and excellence across multiple sports disciplines.
- NCKU Wins the “Spirit Championship” at the 18th CHCW Cup
The 18th CHCW Cup gathered over 1,200 participants from NCKU, NCHU, CCU, and NSYSU for a two-day athletic event featuring 19 sports, including new additions like billiards and a friendly rugby match. NCKU hosted the games and won the Spirit Championship with 59 points. Leaders emphasized health, sportsmanship, and lasting friendships across the Taiwan Comprehensive University System.- The 32nd E-Champ NCKU Badminton Open Kicks Off, Featuring Rising National Players Chien-Wei Chiang and Hsuan-Yi Wu at the Opening Ceremony
The 32nd E-Champ NCKU Badminton Open Tournament officially commenced at National Cheng Kung University, bringing together players for an exciting competition. Sponsored by organizations like Qisda, VICTOR, and Wu-Xian-Ji, the event aims to promote athletic engagement and healthy lifestyles within the university community. Highlighted in the SDG3 initiative report, this tournament underscores NCKU's ongoing dedication to fostering good health and well-being through sports.
- NCKU and NTU Sailing Clubs Excel in Black Ditch Crossing, Claim Four Championships and a Third Place at Penghu Regatta
Students from National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) and National Taiwan University (NTU) crossed the Black Ditch to join the 2025 Penghu Island Sailing Week. Sailing three J80s and a Dehler 34 from Anping, Tainan, they triumphed across multiple events. Guided by Coach Po-Chih, the teams captured four championships and one third-place finish. Beyond their competitive success, the voyage highlighted the students' exceptional teamwork, independence, adaptability, and gratitude toward their supporting sponsors.
- Dr. Ritchey, President of the ISPE, Visits NCKU to Strengthen Real-World Data Applications and International Collaboration
Dr. Mary Beth Ritchey, President of the International Society for Pharmacoepidemiology (ISPE), visited National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) to discuss Real-World Data (RWD) and Real-World Evidence (RWE) applications. Highlighting advantages over randomized clinical trials, she illustrated how RWE speeds safety and efficacy evaluations and expands therapeutic uses. NCKU’s Population Health Data Center Director Edward Lai noted that RWD promotes international research and aligns with SDG 3, 9, and 17. To address challenges like data quality and privacy, NCKU is advancing the open-access "Marine Project" to boost causal inference analysis and global health collaboration.- NCKU Hosts 2025 Digital Health Platform: The Home as a Healthcare Hub—International Expert Insights on Risks and Safety Guidance for Home-Use Medical Devices
On March 18, 2025, National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) hosted the 2025 Digital Health Platform (2025DHP) workshop in Taipei, Taiwan. Centered on the theme "The Home as a Healthcare Hub," the event brought together international experts, healthcare professionals, regulators, and innovators to discuss the future of home-use medical devices. The forum highlighted key insights into safety guidance, risk management, and technological trends, aiming to foster safer healthcare integration directly within home environments.- NCKU Advances Shalun Hospital Project with Integrity Platform, Fostering Cross-Sector Collaboration
National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) held its first Procurement Integrity Platform liaison meeting for the new Shalun Hospital construction project. Chaired by NCKU Executive Vice President Ching-Chang Lee, the meeting brought together key representatives from prosecutors' offices, ethics departments, and legal experts. The platform aims to prevent corruption, address procurement risks, and foster public-private collaboration, ensuring the high-quality execution of this major healthcare development.
- International Symposium on Medical Technology and Biotechnology Industry Collaboration Held at NCKU — Health Data Governance and Japan’s PFI Hospital Operations in Focus
On June 21, National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) hosted the International Symposium on Medical Technology and Biotechnology Industry Collaboration at Macronix Hall. Bringing together medical, tech, and industry experts from Taiwan and Japan, the event focused on smart healthcare, data governance, biotechnology innovation, and international partnerships. Key topics included evidence-based data governance, Private Finance Initiative (PFI) hospital operational models, and AI-driven medical logistics. By leveraging insights from the Kobe Biomedical Innovation Cluster, NCKU aims to accelerate digital transformation and establish the upcoming NCKU Shalun Healthcare and Innovation Park into a globally competitive smart healthcare hub.
- Advancing Sleep Scoring Technology: Breaking Regional Barriers — “Intelligence PSG Scoring Training Workshop” Earns Praise for 5 Consecutive Years
The 2025 "Intelligence PSG Scoring Training Workshop," co-organized by the Taiwan Society of Sleep Medicine and NCKU institutions, successfully marked its fifth year via online livestream. By eliminating geographical barriers, the event provided sleep technologists across Taiwan with a high-quality continuing education platform. Featuring in-depth panel discussions led by experts like Dr. Cheng-Yo Lin, the workshop fostered active engagement to advance professional developments in sleep medicine and drive sustainable sleep health growth.- Silver Sparks Innovation! NCKU × SUSS Launch Cross-Border Co-Creation Course to Inspire a New Generation of Senior Entrepreneurs
National Cheng Kung University and Singapore University of Social Sciences co-hosted the 3rd "Cross-national Co-creation: Exploring Elderly Needs and Developing Innovative Solutions" event. The program brings together students and experts from both institutions to tackle challenges associated with an aging population. Through cross-disciplinary collaboration, participants explore the real-world needs of seniors and brainstorm impactful startup ideas in gerontology. The initiative highlights international academic teamwork aimed at promoting active aging, improving healthcare solutions, and fostering sustainable social innovation to enhance the overall quality of life for the elderly community.
- NCKU College of Medicine and Leadgene Biomedical Establish BSL-2 Lab to Boost Virus Research and Epidemic Preparedness
The College of Medicine at NCKU, in collaboration with Leadgene Biomedical, has officially established a Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) virology laboratory. The inauguration ceremony was held on July 25. This facility aims to enhance research capabilities in viral studies, advance diagnostic development, and foster industry-academia collaboration for public health solutions.
- Nearly 30 NCKU Teams Showcase Innovations in AI, Rapid Testing, and Clinical Applications at BIO Asia-Taiwan
At the 2025 BIO Asia–Taiwan Exhibition, National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) led nearly 30 teams from its alliance platform and medical network to showcase cutting-edge biomedical innovations. The exhibition featured key advancements across AI diagnostics, point-of-care rapid testing, and specialized clinical devices. Featured technologies included AI-driven predictions for embryo quality, acute kidney injury, and muscle mass, alongside ergonomic medical tools and smart home-care platforms. Marking its fifth consecutive year at the event, NCKU demonstrated strong regional R&D leadership and cross-institutional collaboration to advance global biomedical partnerships and precision healthcare applications.- NCKU Partnered with TaiAn Group to Accelerate Product Validation, Market Sales, and International Expansion for New Startups
National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) signed a memorandum of understanding with TaiAn Group to build a precision health and sports technology ecosystem in southern Taiwan. Led by NCKU's Director Liang-Ming Whang and TaiAn's General Manager Hsiang Wang, this partnership accelerates startup validation, sales, and global expansion. Early beneficiaries like NCKU-incubated EM EMPIRE will integrate digital healthcare systems into TaiAn's physical network, improving O2O services and pharmacist consultations. Combining NCKU's research with TaiAn's 300+ pharmacy outlets, the project aims to attract over 30 startups in three years, positioning southern Taiwan as Asia's precision health hub.
- FHED 2025 | Advancing Healthcare Through AI: Integration, Implementation, and Impact
National Cheng Kung University’s Medical Device Innovation Center (MDIC) hosted the 2025 International Conference on Future Healthcare and Economic Development (FHED) from November 17 to 21, 2025. Bringing together academic, industrial, and clinical experts from 16 countries, the event explored how artificial intelligence impacts healthcare technologies, sustainability, talent cultivation, and social responsibility. By fostering strong international interactions, the FHED conference serves as a global platform to accelerate AI-driven healthcare innovation, strengthen international cooperation, and support the development of resilient, sustainable health ecosystems worldwide.
- The Swedish Trade & Invest Council Visits NCKU Hospital Sharing Sweden’s Experience in Resilient Hospital Design to Deepen Exchanges in Smart and Sustainable Healthcare
The Swedish Trade & Invest Council, led by Representative Helena Reitberger, visited National Cheng Kung University Hospital (NCKUH) on November 11, 2025. Hosted by NCKUH President Dr. Jing-Wei Lee, the delegation shared Sweden’s expertise in resilient, sustainable hospital design and smart healthcare. Both parties discussed potential collaborations to deepen international exchanges in green healthcare infrastructure and innovative medical solutions.- 3rd APBA International Conference Highlights Advances in Healthcare and Artificial Intelligence
The 3rd Asia-Pacific BT&Dx Alliance (APBA) International Conference and New Southbound International Multilateral Meeting was held from November 28 to 30 at National Cheng Kung University. Centered on sustainable healthcare innovation, smart preventive medicine, and artificial intelligence, the event gathered experts across Asia-Pacific to foster interdisciplinary exchanges. Opening attendees included former Legislative Yuan President Dr. Chin-Ping Wang and Deputy Mayor Ching-Hui Chao. Highlights featured keynote speeches on AI applications, global biomedical trends, interactive forum discussions, and poster exhibitions showcasing cutting-edge research to drive regional healthcare advancements.
- 2025 “Clinical Proteome Microarray Forum” Focuses on Innovative Applications of High-Throughput Protein Microarray Technology in Precision Medicine
Held on December 12, 2025, at National Cheng Kung University (NCKU), the 2025 "Clinical Proteome Microarray Forum" gathered experts from Taiwan’s medical centers, universities, and biotech industries. The forum focused on advancing high-throughput protein microarray technology in precision medicine. It highlighted innovative applications in disease biomarker discovery, targeted therapy development, and clinical diagnostics. By connecting academic research with clinical practice, the event aimed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, accelerate the translation of proteomic technologies into clinical care, and strengthen Taiwan's leadership in high-throughput biomedical innovation and personalized healthcare solutions.
- Interdisciplinary Experts Gather to Advocate New Perspectives on Sleep Health Policy: Striving for Better Sleep—Sleep Foresight and Health Sustainability Forum
To address modern sleep issues, NCKU co-hosted the "Striving for Better Sleep Forum" to advocate for sleep health policy and sustainability. Experts presented clinical, public health, and neuroscience perspectives: Dr. Tsung-Hua Lu discussed precision assessments and non-pharmacological treatments using tech innovations; Associate Professor Yan-Chin Chen introduced "3T Sleep Health Education," mindfulness breathing, and community engagement games; Distinguished Professor Fu-Ren Hsiao highlighted long-term brain risks and economic losses, calling for cross-domain collaboration to reshape public health policies.