Taipei Tech held the unveiling ceremony of its new iFIRST College on September 27th. President Tsai Ing-wen attended and gave remarks at the ceremony. iFIRST is the education branch of the newly established Frontier Institute of Research for Science and Technology (FIRST). The goal of iFIRST is to allow innovative ideas to flourish by providing interdisciplinary programs.

Other guests present at the ceremony included Yen Chih-fa, Senior Advisor to the President; Yao Leehter, Examination Yuan Minister without Portfolio; Lio Mon-chi, Deputy Minister of Education; Chiueh Herming, Deputy Minister of Digital Affairs; Hwa Yu-chien, Deputy Minister of National Development Council; and Chen Tzong-chyuan, Deputy Minister of National Science and Technology Council.

In her address, President Tsai indicated that Taipei Tech is one of Taiwan’s most prestigious technological universities, and she praised Taipei Tech’s endeavors in talent cultivation and advancing Taiwan’s economy and industrial development. She further commented that iFIRST College has secured resources from sixteen industry partners, making it one of the most resourceful interdisciplinary colleges in Taiwan. Tsai believes that the collaboration between Taipei Tech and its partners will strengthen the competitiveness of Taiwan’s key industries. 

Wang Sea-fue, Taipei Tech President, noted that the iFIRST College will take advantage of FIRST’s industry-university cooperative platform to provide education programs that teach high-demand, high-mobility skills. “The new college will focus on the key areas of Taipei Tech, such as artificial intelligence and semiconductors,” said Wang, “and we plan to roll out master’s and PhD programs in artificial intelligence and information security and credit programs in semiconductor technology. We will also keep program materials up-to-date to attract outstanding students to join the programs.”

Su Chao-chin, Dean of the iFIRST College, indicated that the new college puts great emphasis on hands-on training, internship, and practical problem-solving skills. “Through working with ELAN Microelectronics, AU Optronics Corporation (AUO), Delta Electronics, Chicony Electronics, Fwusow, Sunbird, and many more renowned enterprises, students will be able to acquire skills in high demand and stay current with the evolving market trend,” said Su.