Renowned Scientist Pooling Strengths of 4 Taiwan Universities

TAINAN, Taiwan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 5 marked the official launching of Taiwan Comprehensive University System (TCUS) -- an alliance formed by National Cheng Kung University, National Sun Yat-Sen University, National Chung Hsing University, and National Chung Cheng University -- with world renowned superconductivity researcher Paul Ching-Wu Chu as honorary chancellor.

“I grew up here and this is my chance to give back”

NCKU alumnus Paul Ching-Wu Chu was inaugurated at a ceremony attended by President Ma Ying-jeou, who gave full endorsement to TCUS and the honorary chancellor.

Chu said, “TCUS symbolizes how schools can work together to create a better learning environment. We will try to take the synergistic approach to make these four universities better overall.”

Chu accepted this position knowing that there would be no salary. Nevertheless, he still regards this as a highpoint in his extraordinary career. “I grew up here and this is my chance to give back,” Chu Said.

Maw-Kuen Wu, a good friend of Chu and president of National Dong Hwa University, said laughingly, “When he asked for my opinion about doing this, I suggested that he retire.”

The two men have a deep bond that goes back to the days when they made a historical discovery of superconductivity over 77K at YBCO, which was later nominated for a Nobel Prize. In all seriousness, Wu said, “It is the passion for his Alma Mater. He is an NCKU graduate, and knew of the personal fulfillment that he would get by accepting this position.”

The alliance of the four leading universities in southern Taiwan will undoubtedly improve their science and technology education, which in turn will have positive economic and social impacts in the southern and central Taiwan region as well.

TCUS does not appear to be a short-term association. Dr. Chu’s spectrum spans much farther than his term as honorary chancellor.

When asked about his goals for TCUS over the next four years, Chu said, “My goals for TCUS are not for just four years, but forever. We would naturally like to achieve success as quickly as possible, though.”

Wu said, “It’s a great move to integrate the universities with TCUS. Every university has its own expertise, whether it is agriculture, medicine, engineering, or oceanography, the integration of the quality resources will allow the students to have a great learning environment.”