NTHU Signs MOU with Kaohsiung City to Establish Branch for Semiconductor, AI, and Sustainability Talent Development

National Tsing Hua University (NTHU) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Kaohsiung City Government, announcing plans to establish the NTHU Kaohsiung Branch. This initiative aims to cultivate talent in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and sustainability. Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-Mai revealed that the branch will likely be located near the Zuoying High-Speed Rail Station, providing close proximity to the future Nanzi Science Park.

Following National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University’s decision to set up a branch in Kaohsiung, the Kaohsiung City Government extended an invitation to NTHU late last year. On January 2 of this year, NTHU’s Administrative Council approved the proposal for the new branch, and the university is now drafting a detailed plan for submission to the Ministry of Education for final approval. NTHU President Hocheng Hong and Mayor Chen formalized the collaboration by signing the MOU, highlighting the university's commitment to training talent critical to Taiwan’s future industries.

Mayor Chen emphasized the strategic significance of this branch, citing Kaohsiung’s convenient transportation and industrial clustering. He expressed gratitude for NTHU’s confidence in the city, which he sees as a step toward retaining local talent and attracting top professionals. “This is a 10-to-20-year project to strengthen the foundation for industrial development,” said Chen.

He further stressed the importance of cultivating talent for urban transformation, noting that advanced education and scientific research are key to overcoming development challenges. The city government pledged full administrative support and collaboration with NTHU to ensure the branch’s success. Chen expressed his hope that NTHU will flourish in Kaohsiung, fostering exceptional talent and driving societal progress in Taiwan.

Mayor Chen also envisions the branch becoming a top choice for local students and international scholars seeking advanced studies. He invited global talents to consider pursuing research or doctoral degrees at the Kaohsiung branch, which he believes will bolster the city’s transformation and Taiwan’s industrial future.

Regarding the branch’s location, Chen mentioned that several sites are under evaluation, with a preference for areas near the Zuoying High-Speed Rail Station, within walking distance of the station and close to the planned Nanzi Science Park.

President Hocheng expressed gratitude to the city government for providing NTHU with an opportunity to expand its presence in southern Taiwan. He affirmed the university’s cautious approach and commitment to playing a pivotal role in Kaohsiung’s technological advancement. "Once we set a direction, we give it our all," Hocheng stated.