Pei-Shen Shi putting growing bags on guavas with Geti, a local colleague, during her time on the fruit tree production and marketing project in Eswatini.
Each year, NTU's Student Social Devotion Special Award recognizes the exceptional efforts of students dedicated to promoting social well-being and demonstrating the spirit of altruism. These students are awarded for taking tangible actions to address the needs of the disadvantaged. The 2023 award celebrated three individual winners and one group winner: Pei-Shen Shi from the Department of Chemistry in the College of Science, Wu-Qi Wang from the Department of Political Science in the College of Social Science, Ke-Xuan Shao from the Department of Bio-Industry Communication and Development, and TIWACT, a transnational education program.
Shi actively contributes to the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund's technical mission in Eswatini. Engaging in the fruit tree production and marketing project, she imparts knowledge to local farmers, enhancing their harvest and cultivation management techniques. This not only improves their livelihoods but also contributes to the sustainable development of the environment.
Acknowledging the uneven distribution of social resources between urban and rural areas, Wang founded the local organization "Tsuilu" in Yunlin. Dedicated to addressing public issues, this initiative aims to heighten historical awareness among the community, fostering a connection to the past and advocating for human rights values and social justice.
Another awardee, Shao, dedicates himself to a social prosperity project centered on reviving millet cultivation. Collaborating with local organizations in Xinyi Township, Shao shares his knowledge about the diverse varieties of millet and his discoveries through field studies. Through these efforts, he aims to preserve the cultural heritage, tribal knowledge of the Bunun people, and the rich cultural and ecological diversity of the island.
The group awardee, TIWACT, has established transnational partnerships to enhance the quality of education in Malawi. They conduct English reading workshops and future career workshops, helping children strengthen their English skills and inspiring their imaginations for future lives
Wu-Qi Wang and panelist Tse-Chou Chang in a group photo at the first “Wormhole White Terror Workshop”.
Ke-Xuan Shao raising millet seedlings at the Institute of Plant Biology’s greenhouse.
TIWACT co-founder Rena Yokogawa speaking on behalf of the awardees at the NTU 95th Anniversary Ceremony.
