Professor Chang Chuan-Yu, President of National Yunlin University of Science and Technology (YunTech), has dedicated nearly three decades to information technology education and artificial intelligence (AI). From developing university information systems and promoting industry-oriented curricula to guiding students in commercializing research outcomes, he has consistently emphasized the integration of information technology with real-world needs. In recognition of his contributions to information technology education, academic research, and industry-academia collaboration, President Chang received the 2026 Outstanding ICT Elite Award on November 12. He was one of four recipients recognized in the category of Information Technology Education or Academic Research.

Early in his career, President Chang served as Head of the Systems Division at YunTech's Computer Center, where he participated in the University's digital transformation initiatives. His work included integrating course registration, academic records, and curriculum information, as well as developing student learning portfolios and early warning and counseling systems to help faculty members monitor student learning progress. Later, as Dean of Research and Development, he became actively involved in industry-academia collaboration across the Yunlin and Chiayi regions, providing technical assistance to businesses in local industrial parks. These experiences expanded his professional engagement beyond the classroom and into the business sector, giving him valuable insights into both students' learning needs and the practical challenges faced by industry.

President Chang's approach to AI talent development extends beyond teaching students how to use technology. By incorporating real-world image data provided by businesses into university courses, he enables students to develop practical problem-solving skills through projects, competitions, and internships. He has established a comprehensive talent development model that connects classroom learning, competition-based problem-solving, practical internships, and employment opportunities after graduation. Supported by interdisciplinary courses, advanced AI computing facilities, and industry internship placements, this approach helps bridge the gap between academic learning and professional careers.

One notable example of student-faculty collaboration is the development of the "Infant Crying Translator," an AI-powered application designed to identify infants' needs through their cries. In partnership with National Taiwan University Hospital Yunlin Branch, President Chang led a student research team that spent three years collecting approximately three million valid infant cry recordings. The team developed technology capable of identifying different needs, including hunger, sleepiness, wet diapers, and the need for comfort. The technology was subsequently developed into a mobile application and led to the establishment of Yimorui Technology (宜莫瑞科技). The team also applied AI technology to solar panel defect detection and elderly care in rural communities, leading to the establishment of Yingxian Technology (應現科技) and Weiyi Technology (瑋易科技), respectively. These achievements demonstrate how research projects involving students can evolve into practical industrial applications.

Behind these accomplishments lies a strong foundation of sustained academic research. President Chang has published 119 journal articles indexed in the Science Citation Index (SCI) and has been included in both the Career-Long Scientific Impact and Single-Year Scientific Impact rankings of the Stanford University/Elsevier World's Top 2% Scientists list for five consecutive years. In recent years, the research center under his leadership has assisted more than 200 companies in adopting AI technologies. Its industry-academia collaboration and technology transfer projects have exceeded NT$200 million in value, generating several billion New Taiwan dollars in industrial output. His contributions have also been recognized with the Ministry of Education's National Industry-Academia Master Award.

"Working alongside students to apply information technology to solve real-world business challenges and enhance industrial competitiveness has been my greatest motivation for continuing to teach and conduct research," President Chang stated.

He emphasized that the true value of education lies in cultivating talented individuals who can solve real-world problems, while the significance of technology lies in addressing industry needs and improving people's lives. President Chang expressed his sincere appreciation to the award selection committee for its recognition, to YunTech for providing a platform where he could apply his expertise, and to collaborating businesses for their trust and support. He also dedicated the honor to all the partners who have contributed to these achievements through their collective efforts.

YunTech President Chang Chuan-Yu (right) receives the 2026 Outstanding ICT Elite Award from Taiwan Premier Cho Jung-tai (left) in recognition of his contributions to information technology education and research.

YunTech President Chang Chuan-Yu receives the 2026 Outstanding ICT Elite Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to information technology education and academic research.

Organizing Unit: Office of the Secretariat

Unit Supervisor: Dr. Lin Chien-Chou, Secretary-General

Contact Person: Chen Ying-Hsin

Contact Number: +886-5-534-2601 ext. 2103

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