▎TEACHING & LEARNING

With generous support from the Ocean Affairs Council, National Taiwan University’s (NTU) International College and the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology (NMMST) jointly hosted a two-day immersive program, “Connecting Through the Ocean: Science × Culture × Community.” This event, designed and coordinated by NTU’s International Master’s Program in Biodiversity (IMPB), drew nearly 70 participants from over 25 countries, underscoring Taiwan’s growing appeal as a hub for global learning and cross-cultural exchange.

The program commenced at the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology, where Director Ming-Yuan Wang introduced the museum’s unique setting—nestled between mountain and sea—and explained how regional characteristics are integrated into professional marine science education. The participants toured exhibits on Taiwan’s coastal ecosystems, marine industries, and cultural heritage, laying the foundation for hands-on learning. Then, through such workshops as “Seaweed Diversity and Applications” and “Coral Observation” students were guided through citizen science practices, including field sampling, eco-material reuse, and the making of agar jelly and seaweed-inspired keychains—practices linking research with community-based marine conservation activities.

On the second day, the students visited a local fishing village, to learn directly from fishermen about ecological practices, traditional knowledge, and the realities of marine livelihoods. The group discussed how climate change affects ocean resources and fisheries and explored the Regional Discovery Center to gain a better understanding of the historical evolution of Taiwan’s fishing industry and the diverse social roles within fishing communities. Researchers also shared their fieldwork experiences, encouraging students to connect marine science with personal reflection, creativity, and values-driven action.

The program concluded with a reflection session, where participants engaged in intercultural discussions and exchanged insights on tackling several persistent global challenges, such as climate change, sustainable fisheries, and coastal community resilience.

Professor Chia-Ying Ko, Director of the International Master’s Program in Biodiversity, urged students to embrace and advance the spirit of the program. “Let this ocean experience remind you to see marine science from multiple perspectives, to build international bridges, and to pursue innovative, interdisciplinary solutions for our shared ocean future,” she remarked.

This initiative exemplifies NTU’s and NMMST’s shared commitment to nurturing future leaders capable of advancing ocean sustainability through the integration of science, culture, and community.