NTOU Students Collaborate with International Peers to Promote Regional Revitalization at Kochi University
National Taiwan Ocean University (NTOU) students recently embarked on a transformative journey to Kochi University in Japan from August 20th to 25th, as part of the "Prosperity for Fisherman, Fishing Village, and Fishery - International Blue Economy Pilot Zones(三漁興旺-國際藍色經濟示範區)" project. This endeavor aligns with NTOU's commitment to providing specialized services to society, revitalizing unique industries, and fostering regional development through international connections.
During their visit, five NTOU students engaged in productive exchanges with approximately 30 students from Kochi University, IPB University in Indonesia, Gadjah Mada University in Indonesia, and National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology. Together, they participated in field experiences as part of Kochi University's "Regional Revitalization GLOCAL Exercise(地方創生GLOCAL演習)" course, aimed at broadening their understanding of local initiatives on a global scale.
Kochi University has a long-standing involvement in regional revitalization efforts and is recognized for its pioneering Regional Collaboration Faculty and "Local Innovator(地方創生推進士)" certification program, which nurtures talents dedicated to regional development. This exchange builds upon the memorandum of understanding previously signed between NTOU and Kochi University, reinforcing their commitment to international social responsibility initiatives.
During their field experience in Kochi Prefecture's Kuroshio Town, NTOU students not only shared their experiences in social responsibility projects but also gained insights into sustainable local development alongside their international peers. This exchange provided students with an opportunity to appreciate diverse cultures, understand local characteristics, and explore development challenges and revitalization experiences, underscoring the significance of regional revitalization.
Kochi University's practice of incorporating overseas exchanges and field experiences as formal credit courses, supplemented by comprehensive pre-exchange training, serves as a model for other institutions. This initiative encourages international discourse and a deeper understanding of cultural diversity and perspectives on regional development.
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Students from Taiwan, Japan, and Indonesia exchange experiences and ideas on regional revitalization, as well as collaborate on field investigations in Kochi City.
Special acknowledgments were extended to Professors Shingo Akaike(赤池慎吾), Kenji Okamura(岡村健志), and Kazuya Masuda(増田和也) from Kochi University, as well as the support provided by Kuroshio Town and the Sunahama Art Museum during this exchange.
Assistant Professor Ming-Hao Yang(楊名豪) from NTOU's Bachelor's Program of Ocean Law and Policy emphasized the transformative nature of this cross-border exchange, encouraging students to embrace new experiences and bring the spirit of international exchange back to campus, inspiring their peers to embark on similar journeys.
