The Office of International Affairs at National Yunlin University of Science and Technology held the “Dragon Boat Festival Creative Workshop: Fragrance of Zongzi Leaves” on June 18, 2026. Through an introduction to Dragon Boat Festival traditions and hands-on creative activities, the event guided international students in understanding Taiwanese customs while offering a relaxing, healing, and green-themed experience ahead of the final examination period.

Centered on the theme “Planting Greenery into the Dragon Boat Festival,” the workshop combined the imagery of zongzi with creative potted plant design. Students used materials such as hemp rope, Chinese knotting, natural elements, and green plants to craft unique Dragon Boat Festival-themed potted creations. The compact and adorable zongzi-inspired designs, paired with vibrant greenery, not only highlighted festive characteristics but also transformed traditional culture into meaningful, everyday handcrafted artworks.

The workshop featured instructors Ms. Huang Xiao-Chi and Ms. Lai Jing-Ting from Sunflower Art Studio. They introduced the origins and cultural practices of the Dragon Boat Festival, including eating zongzi, dragon boat racing, and hanging sachets, while guiding students step by step through the creative process. With their warm and engaging explanations, students from diverse countries were able to learn about Taiwanese festive culture in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, making the hands-on experience both educational and enjoyable.

The event also invited South African faculty member Mr. Farhad Abdul Kader Cassim (Wang Yu-Rui) to participate. During the workshop, he delivered a speech in Mandarin, encouraging international students to engage with Taiwanese culture through festival experiences. He also expressed his hope that students would take time to relax and connect through creative activities alongside their academic studies, experiencing the warmth of campus life. Mr. Cassim has long supported Mandarin learning for international learners and has been involved in the development of Chinese language learning tools. Drawing on his experience, he encouraged students to confidently use Mandarin and engage more closely with life in Taiwan. His participation aligns with the Office of International Affairs’ ongoing efforts to promote Mandarin learning and local cultural integration for international students.

During the hands-on session, students wrapped hemp rope, arranged plants, and exchanged creative ideas, creating a lively and friendly atmosphere. For many international students, the workshop was not only an introduction to the Dragon Boat Festival, but also a therapeutic moment to temporarily set aside academic pressure and focus on creativity. As simple materials gradually transformed into festive-themed potted artworks, students experienced a strong sense of accomplishment.

Following the workshop, the Office of International Affairs hosted an award ceremony for the International Student Short Video Competition. Mr. Cassim was invited as the guest presenter to award certificates to the winners, recognizing students’ outstanding efforts in documenting their academic life, daily experiences, and cultural exchanges in Taiwan through video. Faculty and students gathered for group photos, adding further meaning to the celebration through exchange, encouragement, and shared appreciation.

Dean of International Affairs Professor Yeh Hui-Ching noted that the Dragon Boat Festival embodies cultural meanings of blessing, protection, and reunion. By transforming traditional festivities into creative hands-on experiences, international students can naturally and meaningfully engage with Taiwanese culture while gaining a sense of calm and emotional relief during examination periods. She also expressed her hope that students will, through continuous cultural exchange activities at NYUST, feel supported and accompanied throughout their study journey, while broadening their global perspectives through intercultural encounters.

Through this event, the Dragon Boat Festival was not only introduced as a traditional celebration, but also became an important moment for international students to understand Taiwanese culture, relax mentally, and engage in meaningful interaction. The Office of International Affairs will continue to organize diverse cultural and festival exchange activities, enabling international students at NYUST to experience Taiwan, connect with the world, and create warm and memorable experiences through intercultural engagement.

Students showcase their completed Dragon Boat Festival creative potted plants, combining zongzi-inspired designs with greenery to highlight festive characteristics.

Students focus on creating Dragon Boat Festival-themed potted plants, using hemp rope, natural materials, and greenery.

South African faculty member Mr. Farhad Abdul Kader Cassim delivers a speech in Mandarin, encouraging international students to engage with Taiwanese culture.

Instructors introduce Dragon Boat Festival traditions and cultural practices, guiding students through Taiwan’s festive heritage.

International students happily display their completed potted plant creations, gathering for a warm group photo.

Organizer: Office of International Affairs
Head of Office: Dean Yeh Hui-Ching
Contact Person: Mr. Chang Ming-Jun
Tel: (05) 534-2601 ext. 2393