Taichung, Taiwan – On February 17, the Office of International and Cross-Strait Affairs at Overseas Chinese University (OCU) warmly welcomed Director Aaron of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) Taichung Branch. Director Aaron engaged in discussions with Filipino international students and held in-depth conversations with OCU faculty to enhance support and care for Filipino students.
Currently, Filipino students constitute the largest group of international students at OCU, numbering nearly 200. This event aimed to strengthen support systems, ensuring students feel secure in their studies and daily lives in Taiwan, while also deepening collaboration with Philippine authorities.
The event focused on three main themes: student welfare, policy education, and cross-cultural educational cooperation. Director Aaron personally met with Filipino students to understand their academic and daily experiences, offering guidance to help them better adapt to their environment. MECO Taichung Branch also provided information on relevant policies, ensuring students are well-informed about their rights and responsibilities. Additionally, Director Aaron engaged with OCU faculty to explore ways to optimize support mechanisms for Filipino students, enhancing their learning experiences and development opportunities.
Dean of International and Cross-Strait Affairs office, Mr. Kuan Hung Chen, stated during the discussion: “Our university places great importance on the academic and personal well-being of our international students. Through this dialogue, we aim to better understand your needs and assure you that both the university and MECO are your strongest allies. Should you encounter any challenges—be it academic, personal, or career-related—please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We strive to foster an open communication environment to ensure each student receives the best possible educational experience.”
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Photo credit :The Office of International & Cross-Strait Affairs, Overseas Chinese University.
This event not only demonstrates OCU’s commitment to its international students but also strengthens ties with Philippine officials. Moving forward, the university will continue to advance support systems for international students, create a more welcoming learning environment, and enhance connections with international organizations to provide comprehensive support and development opportunities for its students.