YunTech Strengthens Global Engagement Through the “Thousand Eagles Program” to Enhance Students’ International Mobility

National Yunlin University of Science and Technology (YunTech) held the 2026 Fall Semester Outbound Exchange Student Pre-departure Orientation on June 10, providing comprehensive pre-departure guidance and safety training for students preparing to study abroad. The event reflects President Chang Chuan-Yu’s commitment to advancing the University’s “Thousand Eagles Program,” which promotes meaningful international exchange and cross-cultural engagement while positioning YunTech as a leading institution for cultivating globally competitive talent.

The Thousand Eagles Program aims to strengthen students’ international mobility by sending more than 1,000 students each year to participate in overseas exchange programs and a wide range of international learning opportunities. Through these experiences, the University seeks to broaden students’ global perspectives and enhance their competitiveness in the international job market.

To enrich this year's orientation, the Office of International Affairs introduced an innovative format by inviting current inbound exchange students to serve as “Cultural Ambassadors.” Participants included Matild Lorette from Y SCHOOLS in France, Marie Charlotte Epp, Eric Grätsch, and Paula Schiermeyer from HTW Berlin – University of Applied Sciences, as well as Hanna Mielczarek and Lilian Alice Drabinski from TH Brandenburg University of Applied Sciences in Germany. Drawing on their own experiences, they shared practical insights into studying and living abroad, covering topics ranging from daily life and transportation to accommodation, local customs, and intercultural communication. Their first-hand perspectives enabled YunTech students to connect with the international community before departure and better prepare for life overseas.

President Chang Chuan-Yu has consistently emphasized that university students should possess both the confidence and professional competence to pursue international opportunities. Through the Thousand Eagles Program, YunTech not only provides comprehensive financial support and application guidance but also strives to create a diverse and internationally oriented learning environment. Accordingly, this orientation placed particular emphasis on personal safety and cross-cultural adaptation, ensuring that every participant is well prepared to study abroad safely while maximizing the academic and cultural value of the exchange experience and serving as an ambassador for YunTech.

During the orientation, Huang Chen-Yuan, Section Chief of the International Exchange Division, congratulated the students on being selected for exchange programs at prestigious partner universities in Japan, Germany, and other countries. She noted that participants would spend either one semester or one academic year abroad and encouraged them to take full advantage of the University's financial support. She urged students to embrace new cultures with an open mind, enjoy the opportunities and challenges of studying overseas, and view both achievements and setbacks as valuable experiences for personal growth. She also reminded students to prioritize their safety, maintain good health, and make the most of their time abroad both academically and culturally.

The orientation also fostered two-way interaction, allowing outbound students to establish connections with current international students and peers before leaving Taiwan. Looking ahead, the Office of International Affairs will continue expanding partnerships with leading universities around the world by signing new cooperation agreements and strengthening existing exchange programs. Through these efforts, the Thousand Eagles Program will further enhance students’ international adaptability and global mobility, preparing YunTech graduates to thrive as highly competitive professionals in an increasingly interconnected world.

Huang Chen-Yuan, Section Chief of the International Exchange Division, encourages students preparing for overseas exchange.

Eric Grätsch from HTW Berlin – University of Applied Sciences shares insights into everyday transportation in Germany, offering practical local advice to outgoing Taiwanese exchange students.

International exchange students and YunTech students enjoy lunch together and engage in cross-cultural交流.

Organizing Unit: Office of International Affairs
Director: Yeh Hui-Ching
Contact Person: Lo Yu-Han
Extension: 2392