NTNU Strengthens Ties with UK Universities Through Strategic Visit
A delegation from National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU) visited the United Kingdom in late October as part of the Taiwan–UK University Consortium initiative. The trip aimed to strengthen NTNU’s collaboration with British partner institutions in areas including teacher education, sustainability research, Mandarin instruction, and international academic mobility.
Led by Yi-De Liu, Director of the Office of International Affairs, the delegation included senior faculty from multiple colleges: Yu-Ting Liu (Dean, College of Teacher Education), Chao-Mei Tu (Deputy Director, Mandarin Training Center), Yi-Hsuan Hung (Dean, College of Technology and Engineering), Wei-Ta Fang (Vice Dean, College of Science), and Yun-Hsin Cindy Chou (Professor, College of Management). The group held meetings with counterparts at the University of Glasgow, Newcastle University, the University of Liverpool, and the University of Edinburgh.
University of Glasgow: Four Pillars of Future Cooperation
At the University of Glasgow, NTNU met with Vice-Principal for Internationalization William Cushley and Dean of Global Engagement Konstantinos Kontis. Discussions focused on faculty exchange, student mobility, joint research, and dual degree programs. Cushley emphasized NTNU’s strengths in education, sustainability, and Mandarin language teaching, noting potential for further international collaboration.
Four key areas for joint development were identified:
1. Teacher training and educational cooperation
2. Sustainability and green energy research
3. Mandarin language education and cultural exchange
4. Dual master’s degrees in management
Teacher Education and AI-Supported Pedagogy
NTNU’s College of Teacher Education is establishing a laboratory that integrates digital technologies into teacher training. By using tools such as those developed by NVIDIA, the lab will analyze teaching demonstrations to provide early-stage, real-time feedback. The initiative supports data-informed training and aims to foster collaboration with British universities through overseas practicums. Glasgow expressed interest in joint initiatives, especially in combining education with technology, and will explore opportunities through its College of Social Sciences and School of Computing.
Science and Sustainability: Exploring Quantum Research
During a visit to the University of Glasgow’s Advanced Research Centre, NTNU's College of Science proposed creating a collaborative framework on quantum computing and environmental science. Possible projects include modeling extreme climate scenarios using quantum simulation, optimizing carbon capture with advanced computing, and deploying quantum sensors for environmental monitoring. A proposed joint Quantum AI Sustainability Laboratory would support doctoral exchanges and data collaboration, aligning with Glasgow’s sustainability goals.
Engineering and Green Technology Collaboration
NTNU’s College of Technology and Engineering continues to grow international ties in engineering and applied sciences. Projects under development include a semiconductor training program and expanded robotics research. At the University of Edinburgh, Professor Sethu Vijayakumar, Director of the Robotics Centre, confirmed he would visit NTNU later this year to advance cooperation in robotics. Dr. Eni Oko also expressed interest in joint hydrogen energy research with NTNU scientists.
Mandarin Training Center Expands International Role
NTNU’s Mandarin Training Center (MTC) plays a key role in promoting cultural exchange. Kontis of the University of Glasgow proposed promoting the Mandarin + Research Scholarship, encouraging science and engineering students to study Mandarin and participate in internships. The initiative is designed to integrate language education with academic and practical experience, enhancing cross-cultural competency and international engagement.
Management Collaboration and Global Mobility
NTNU’s College of Management, accredited by AACSB in 2024, is rapidly internationalizing, with over 30 percent of its students coming from abroad and all courses offered in English. The college aims to establish dual degree programs and faculty exchange initiatives with British partners in fields such as business, sustainability, and international development.
Moving Toward Long-Term, Strategic Partnerships
This UK visit marked a transition from forum-based interactions to structured, long-term collaborations. Both NTNU and its British counterparts signaled a shared interest in building models for global cooperation in education, research, and innovation. NTNU plans to continue expanding its international reach, enhancing opportunities for students and faculty under its “Global Best” vision that is rooted in Taiwan, connected to the world.