台灣聯合大學系統

Overview

The University System of Taiwan (UST) is a prominent university alliance in Taiwan, officially established in 2008 with approval from the Ministry of Education. The system comprises four member institutions: National Tsing Hua University, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, National Cheng Chi University, and National Central University. UST aims to foster collaboration among these institutions to enhance research capabilities, academic programs, and international engagement, thereby contributing to the advancement of higher education in Taiwan.

History and Legal Framework

In response to the political democratization on the island, Taiwan institutionalized the rule of law concerning university autonomy. In the 1990s, three major laws—the University Law, Teacher Law, and Private Education Law—were revised or promulgated to adjust the relations between higher education's key players, including the Ministry of Education and universities. These legal reforms aimed to enhance the autonomy of universities and improve the overall quality of higher education in Taiwan.

Mission, Vision, and Objectives

UST's mission is to create a collaborative environment among its member institutions to promote excellence in research, teaching, and community engagement. The alliance seeks to:

• Enhance interdisciplinary research and academic programs.
• Strengthen international partnerships and global outreach.
• Promote the development of innovative educational models.
• Contribute to the socio-economic development of Taiwan through higher education.

Governance, Structure, and Independence

UST operates under a governance structure that includes a Steering Committee, which serves as the Board of Trustees on behalf of the Ministry of Education. The Steering Committee is chaired by Dr. Ovid J. L. Tzeng, an Academician of Academia Sinica and Minister without Portfolio of the Executive Yuan. This structure ensures that UST maintains a balance between governmental oversight and institutional autonomy, allowing for effective collaboration among its member universities while adhering to national educational policies.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation

UST member institutions are subject to accreditation and quality evaluation processes conducted by the Higher Education Evaluation and Accreditation Council of Taiwan (HEEACT). HEEACT has been accrediting higher education institutions in Taiwan for over a decade, conducting quality assurance and enhancement research and development projects on higher education. The results of these evaluations are provided through the Taiwan Quality Institution Directory (TQID), which serves as a resource for institutions, programs, and overseas accreditation information.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

UST actively engages in international cooperation to enhance the global presence and impact of Taiwanese higher education. The alliance collaborates with various international institutions and organizations to facilitate academic exchanges, joint research projects, and the development of international curricula. UST's member universities have established numerous partnerships worldwide, contributing to the internationalization of Taiwan's higher education system.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

UST continues to have a significant impact on the higher education sector in Taiwan. Its collaborative initiatives have led to the development of innovative educational programs and research projects that address both local and global challenges. The alliance's focus on international cooperation has also increased Taiwan's visibility in the global academic community. Looking forward, UST aims to further strengthen its role in shaping the future of higher education in Taiwan by expanding its international partnerships and enhancing the quality of its academic offerings.

Summary

The University System of Taiwan plays a pivotal role in the advancement of higher education in Taiwan. Through its collaborative efforts, governance structure, commitment to quality assurance, and international engagement, UST contributes to the development of a robust and dynamic higher education system that meets the needs of students, faculty, and society.

FAQs

• What is the University System of Taiwan? The University System of Taiwan is a university alliance established in 2008, comprising four member institutions: National Tsing Hua University, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, National Cheng Chi University, and National Central University.
• What is the mission of UST? UST's mission is to foster collaboration among its member institutions to enhance research capabilities, academic programs, and international engagement, thereby advancing higher education in Taiwan.
• How is UST governed? UST operates under a governance structure that includes a Steering Committee, serving as the Board of Trustees on behalf of the Ministry of Education. The committee is chaired by Dr. Ovid J. L. Tzeng.
• What is the role of HEEACT? The Higher Education Evaluation and Accreditation Council of Taiwan (HEEACT) conducts accreditation and quality evaluation processes for higher education institutions in Taiwan, ensuring the maintenance of academic standards.
• How does UST engage internationally? UST actively collaborates with international institutions and organizations to facilitate academic exchanges, joint research projects, and the development of international curricula, enhancing Taiwan's global academic presence.