Office of International Affairs at National Yunlin University of Science and Technology Hosts Lunar New Year and Lantern Festival Gathering, Bringing International Faculty and Students Together to Celebrate the New Year
The Office of International Affairs at National Yunlin University of Science and Technology (YunTech) held the International Faculty and Students Lunar New Year and Lantern Festival Gathering on March 4, 2026. Faculty members, students, and international students from across campus and beyond were invited to come together in a festive setting to welcome both the new semester and the new year. Integrating elements of the Lunar New Year and Lantern Festival, the event featured festive cuisine, interactive games, and cultural experiences, creating a warm and internationally oriented environment for交流 and connection.
The event was organized into two sessions: a relaxed lunchtime gathering and an evening celebration. The lunchtime session centered on the theme “Tangyuan Wishes and Casual Connections.” Freshly prepared tangyuan (sweet rice dumplings) were served for participants to enjoy freely, alongside a wish-card writing activity and a glowing wishing tree photo area that attracted many students. After writing their New Year wishes, participants personally hung their cards on the wishing tree, with each message reflecting hopes for the year ahead while naturally fostering interaction among students from diverse cultural backgrounds. Festive souvenirs, including themed name tags, stickers, and bookmarks, were also provided, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
The evening session transitioned into a formal Lantern Festival celebration. Following opening remarks by distinguished guests, the program featured a buffet dinner, student performances, a short-video competition, and three rounds of lucky draws, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere throughout the evening. Student groups presented dance and talent performances that showcased the vibrancy and diversity of the international campus community. Interactive games further encouraged real-time collaboration and communication among students of different nationalities, filling the venue with laughter and energy.
A highlight of the event was the glowing wishing tree, symbolizing New Year blessings and connecting both sessions of the day. From quiet wish-writing activities at noon to evening photo opportunities, it became one of the most popular installations of the celebration. The event concluded with a group photo of faculty and students, marking a joyful and memorable ending to the festive gathering.
Professor Yeh Hui-Ching, Dean of International Affairs, noted that the Lunar New Year and Lantern Festival represent important moments of reunion and new beginnings in Chinese culture. By combining traditional festive elements with international exchange activities, the University hopes that students from around the world can experience the warmth and companionship of the holiday season while gaining a deeper understanding of Taiwanese culture. She added that the Office of International Affairs will continue to organize diverse multicultural programs to foster an international-friendly campus where students feel welcome to stay, connect, and create lasting memories.
More than a seasonal celebration, the gathering offered a meaningful moment of cross-cultural connection. From a bowl of tangyuan and a handwritten wish card to the applause and laughter shared on stage, the event brought vibrant international colors to the early spring campus and provided participants with a cherished YunTech holiday memory at the beginning of a busy new semester.
International Students Pose for a Group Photo Amid a Festive Celebration Atmosphere
Professor Yeh Hui-Ching, Dean of International Affairs, personally conducted the lucky draw, bringing the atmosphere to an exciting climax filled with anticipation and excitement.
The event also recognized the winners of the Short Video Competition, encouraging international students to document and share their experiences in Taiwan through creative storytelling.
International student performers posed for a commemorative photo with the Dean of International Affairs, showcasing the vibrancy and inclusiveness of YunTech’s international campus community.
At the conclusion of the event, international faculty and students gathered for a group photo, creating a memorable early spring moment and bringing the Lunar New Year and Lantern Festival Gathering to a perfect close.
Organizing Unit: Office of International Affairs
Director: Professor Yeh Hui-Ching
Contact Person: Chang Ming-Chun
Contact Number: +886-5-534-2601 ext. 2393
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