Two educational institutions maintain their defense-related initiatives
The Ministry of National Defense in Taiwan has decided to continue providing national defense undergraduate programs at National Tsing Hua University and National Cheng Kung University, despite low enrollment rates. These programs, which started in the 2020-2021 academic year, are designed to train a new generation of military officials and boost the defense industry's autonomous capabilities.
Last year, the Ministry canceled undergraduate national defense programs at these top universities due to concerns about alignment with modern defense strategies and resource allocation. However, the Ministry's strategic reconsideration of these programs indicates a recognition of their importance in cultivating a defense-capable workforce.
Academic affairs dean Wu Yung-hsien of National Tsing Hua University stated that the program aims to build a supply chain of talent for defense technology. The program recruits students fresh out of high school, providing them with a comprehensive education that combines academic studies with military training. Students enrolled in these programs must undergo military training every Saturday and during summer and winter vacations.
The broader geopolitical environment, including Taiwan’s efforts to strengthen defense readiness amidst Chinese military threats and technological competition, underscores the imperative for sustained defense education for undergraduates in strategic universities. The expert who spoke anonymously stated that students who graduate from top universities and are "air dropped" into the military often find it hard to adapt.
Students in the program receive a complete waiver of tuition and fees, NT$5,000 per semester for books and supplies, and a NT$12,000 monthly stipend. Graduates of the national defense undergraduate program are recruited as second lieutenants by the military and are obligated to serve for at least five years.
The national defense undergraduate programs are not without challenges. Recruiting university students for the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) is more difficult due to the possibility of them quitting if they can't adapt to the requirements. The Ministry of Education's Department of Higher Education is willing to work with the Ministry of National Defense to resume these programs and address these challenges.
Academic affairs dean Shen Sheng-chih of National Cheng Kung University emphasized the responsibility of national universities to cultivate defense talent. The program has helped to cultivate top talent for diverse research and leadership roles in the armed forces.
In summary, the cancellation and continuation of the national defense undergraduate programs can be seen as a strategic shift to align these programs with current security demands. The heightened alertness to Chinese threats and national unity concerns drive this ongoing commitment to defense education. The programs are planned to continue because of the critical role that educated defense professionals play in Taiwan’s security.
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