NTNU Holds Sustainable Talent Forum with UAE’s Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al Nuaimi
National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU) held the "University Talent Cultivation Perspective of Transformation" International Forum on May 6, 2025, bringing together His Highness Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al Nuaimi of Ajman, United Arab Emirates, and 11 youth delegates from the U.A.E., alongside faculty and students from the NTU System—comprising NTNU, National Taiwan University (NTU), and National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (NTUST). The forum centered on the theme “University’s Talent Cultivation for Sustainable Transformation – Global Competence, Social Engagement, and Technological Innovation,” aiming to explore strategies for nurturing future talents capable of addressing global sustainability challenges.
Strengthening Taiwan-UAE Collaboration for a Sustainable Future
The forum opened with remarks from NTNU President Cheng-Chih Wu, who expressed his sincere gratitude to Sheikh Abdul Aziz and the U.A.E. Youths for their visit. He recalled the positive experiences of eight NTU System students who visited the U.A.E. in November 2024, and emphasized that this reciprocal exchange not only strengthens youth engagement, but also lays the foundation for long-term educational collaboration between Taiwan and the U.A.E.
Director Tzu-Chau Chang of NTNU’s Sustainable Development Center, who moderated the forum, introduced its core focus: cultivating talent through three integrated perspectives—understanding Global Competence and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), fostering Social Engagement, and promoting Technological Innovation. He emphasized that these pillars are essential and mutually reinforcing in shaping globally-minded and action-driven future leaders.
In his keynote speech, Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al Nuaimi highlighted the U.A.E.’s ongoing efforts in youth development and its commitment to education as a key driver of sustainable development. He emphasized that today’s youth have the potential to become tomorrow’s leaders, entrepreneurs, or global ambassadors, and stressed the importance of “action” in co-creating a better future. He also expressed hopes for deeper collaboration with Taiwanese institutions through scholarship programs, faculty exchanges, and internship opportunities.
Dr. Salim from the U.A.E. delegation, along with two youth representatives, Ms. Mahra and Mr. Alhasan, shared their insights on youth empowerment. They underscored the significance of cultivating a proactive mindset, and noted that sustainability has been a national focus in the U.A.E. since its founding.
Academic Insights from the NTU System
Scholars from the NTU System offered in-depth perspectives on sustainability-oriented education. NTNU’s Prof. Wei-Ta Fang introduced the concept of Global Competence, stressing the importance of curriculum internationalization, cross-cultural communication skills, and the integration of SDGs in higher education to help students become capable global citizens. NTU’s Prof. Ching-Pin Tung discussed Social Engagement, sharing examples of how universities can bridge academic knowledge with real-world community action through service-learning projects, civic research, and community partnerships that foster students’ sense of responsibility. NTUST’s Prof. Tsai-Chi Kuo addressed Technological Innovation, advocating for the cultivation of students not only as users of emerging technologies but also as responsible innovators and leaders who can drive sustainable change through entrepreneurship and creative thinking.
Cultural Exchange through Campus Exploration
Following the forum, Sheikh Abdul Aziz and the U.A.E. delegation were invited on a campus tour led by Prof. Yi-De Liu, NTNU’s Vice President for International Affairs, along with NTNU Smile Student Ambassadors. The group first visited the NTNU Gymnastics Training Hall, where they were introduced to the NTNU Gymnastics team, renowned for its excellence under the guidance of Coach Shi-Hang Weng. The team boasts a complete training system spanning from elementary school to university level, having recently won a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics and five gold medals at the 2025 World University Games.
The delegation then visited the College of Music, where Dean Dr. Hsiao-Fen Chen hosted a special musical performance by outstanding student musicians featuring violin and piano duets. The College regularly invites internationally acclaimed artists to conduct masterclasses, enhancing its global engagement and artistic standards.
The final stop was the NTNU Art Festival (also known as the 2025 Green Avenue Arts Festival), organized by students from the College of Arts. The event featured displays and sales of handmade artworks including ceramics, weaving, and paintings, alongside interactive workshops and portrait booths. The creativity and enthusiasm of the students left a lasting impression on the U.A.E. guests.
Laying the Foundation for Future Cooperation
The visit concluded with a group photo session between Sheikh Abdul Aziz and NTNU President Wu. President Wu once again extended his warm welcome to the delegation, stating that the forum and exchange activities showcased Taiwan’s commitment to sustainability and talent development. He expressed hope that this visit would further deepen the friendship and educational cooperation between Taiwan and the U.A.E., paving the way for long-term partnerships in student exchange, joint research, and global talent cultivation.
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