SDG17
NCKU College of Social Sciences hosted Eswatini students for an immersive experience of the university and Tainan City
On December 19, 2024, the College of Social Sciences at National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) invited orphanage students from Eswatini, Africa, to visit the NCKU campus and deeply experience the cultural and historical richness of Tainan's ancient city. Accompanied by NCKU faculty and students, the visitors gained insight into the historical landmarks of both the university and Tainan. Furthermore, the afternoon’s art performance session fostered cultural exchange and highlighted the spirit of art transcending borders.
The orphanage students from Eswatini have long been supported by Taiwan’s Amitofo Care Centre (ACC). As part of their "Journey of Gratitude from Africa" in December, the College of Social Sciences at NCKU collaborated with the ACC to organize this cross-cultural exchange event. Dean Chun-Li Tsai of the College of Social Sciences emphasized that the college remains committed to its values of addressing the needs of the underprivileged, focusing on sustainable development, and striving to create well-being for humanity and the local community. He noted that this event provided an opportunity for NCKU students to practice international university social responsibility (USR) .
Chu-Chiao Hung, a psychology student who participated in the event, reflected that such a uniquely planned activity allowed everyone to engage in cultural exchange with their Eswatini partners through local delicacies and historic sites. It was a meaningful and unforgettable experience.
Another participant, Ping-Hsun Hsieh from the Department of Political Science, shared a touching moment: "I was deeply moved by an 18-year-old girl from the Eswatini group who lost her parents and found a second home at Taiwan’s Amitofo Care Centre. She visited Taiwan ten years ago and aspired to become a lawyer to protect her country and friends. Now, she has achieved her dream and will be studying law at university next year. I feel fortunate to have interacted with these children. Their innocence, determination, and effort inspire me to see limitless possibilities and reinforce the idea that we can contribute to society. It was truly rewarding to be part of this day."
The day began at 9 a.m. in NCKU’s Banyan Garden, where students participated in lively team-building activities designed by the College of Social Sciences. These interactive sessions quickly bridged gaps and fostered camaraderie. Later, the group visited Tainan Art Museum Building 1, the Confucius Temple, and Hayashi Department Store, engaging in an in-depth guided tour to explore Tainan’s unique cultural heritage. Divided into smaller groups, the visitors gained a deeper understanding of the city’s charm through the guided tours.
During lunch, Eswatini students currently studying at NCKU joined the group to share their learning experiences and life in Taiwan. A NCKU alumnus from the Class of 2011, who now runs the dessert shop "De Canelé" in Tainan, provided exquisite afternoon tea for everyone, adding a festive Christmas atmosphere to the occasion.
The highlight of the afternoon was the “Art Together: 72 Transformations” activity led by Professor Ma Wei-Hsi of the Institute of Art Studies. The Eswatini students learned traditional diabolo (Chinese yo-yo) techniques, painted face masks depicting characters like Sun Wukong, and dressed in traditional costumes. This not only introduced them to Taiwan’s traditional crafts but also facilitated deep cross-cultural understanding through artistic exchange.
The success of this event demonstrated the College of Social Sciences’ dedication to promoting international exchange and cultural inclusivity. It also provided a valuable platform for students to practice international university social responsibility, making it an invaluable and memorable experience for all involved.
The orphanage students from Eswatini have long been supported by Taiwan’s Amitofo Care Centre (ACC). As part of their "Journey of Gratitude from Africa" in December, the College of Social Sciences at NCKU collaborated with the ACC to organize this cross-cultural exchange event. Dean Chun-Li Tsai of the College of Social Sciences emphasized that the college remains committed to its values of addressing the needs of the underprivileged, focusing on sustainable development, and striving to create well-being for humanity and the local community. He noted that this event provided an opportunity for NCKU students to practice international university social responsibility (USR) .
Chu-Chiao Hung, a psychology student who participated in the event, reflected that such a uniquely planned activity allowed everyone to engage in cultural exchange with their Eswatini partners through local delicacies and historic sites. It was a meaningful and unforgettable experience.
Another participant, Ping-Hsun Hsieh from the Department of Political Science, shared a touching moment: "I was deeply moved by an 18-year-old girl from the Eswatini group who lost her parents and found a second home at Taiwan’s Amitofo Care Centre. She visited Taiwan ten years ago and aspired to become a lawyer to protect her country and friends. Now, she has achieved her dream and will be studying law at university next year. I feel fortunate to have interacted with these children. Their innocence, determination, and effort inspire me to see limitless possibilities and reinforce the idea that we can contribute to society. It was truly rewarding to be part of this day."
The day began at 9 a.m. in NCKU’s Banyan Garden, where students participated in lively team-building activities designed by the College of Social Sciences. These interactive sessions quickly bridged gaps and fostered camaraderie. Later, the group visited Tainan Art Museum Building 1, the Confucius Temple, and Hayashi Department Store, engaging in an in-depth guided tour to explore Tainan’s unique cultural heritage. Divided into smaller groups, the visitors gained a deeper understanding of the city’s charm through the guided tours.
During lunch, Eswatini students currently studying at NCKU joined the group to share their learning experiences and life in Taiwan. A NCKU alumnus from the Class of 2011, who now runs the dessert shop "De Canelé" in Tainan, provided exquisite afternoon tea for everyone, adding a festive Christmas atmosphere to the occasion.
The highlight of the afternoon was the “Art Together: 72 Transformations” activity led by Professor Ma Wei-Hsi of the Institute of Art Studies. The Eswatini students learned traditional diabolo (Chinese yo-yo) techniques, painted face masks depicting characters like Sun Wukong, and dressed in traditional costumes. This not only introduced them to Taiwan’s traditional crafts but also facilitated deep cross-cultural understanding through artistic exchange.
The success of this event demonstrated the College of Social Sciences’ dedication to promoting international exchange and cultural inclusivity. It also provided a valuable platform for students to practice international university social responsibility, making it an invaluable and memorable experience for all involved.
The College of Social Sciences at NCKU invited orphanage students from Eswatini, Africa, to visit the NCKU campus on December 19, 2024.
The group traveled by car to Tainan Art Museum Building 1, visited the Confucius Temple and Hayashi Department Store, embarking on an in-depth guided tour of history and culture.
The students learned traditional diabolo (Chinese yo-yo) techniques, painted traditional character face masks such as Sun Wukong, and dressed in opera costumes, experiencing Taiwan's traditional arts and crafts.
Through these visits, students of the College of Social Sciences can also put into practice the international university social responsibility (USR) initiative.
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