NCNU is introducing energy-efficient tools and best practices to Taiwan's agricultural sector.

National Chi Nan University (NCNU) has been ranked as the world’s 63rd best university for “Responsible Consumption and Production” in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Impact Rankings.

THE does not provide a specific number ranking beyond the top 100, but NCNU was placed in the top 101-200 level for “Quality Education” out of 676 competing universities from around the world. This honor was bestowed in recognition of excellence in academic and scientific research, provision of new skills and resources conducive to all age groups, and outreach programs for minority groups, among other efforts dedicated to achieving the goal of “Leave No One Behind.” Moreover, the school is driven to making it into the top-100 tier next year.

“Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions,” “Climate Action,” and “Reducing Inequalities” were the three other categories in which NCNU was also placed in the top 101-200 level of the impact rankings. This shows that NCNU has made considerable progress in resolving conflict and ensuring that all parties involved have proper representation in decision-making, academic-industry collaboration, and the implementation of equal and accessible education.

Dr. Yuhlong Oliver Su pointed out that financial impact of the COVID-19 crisis is imminent, which will inevitably force the university to adapt in a realistic manner. International students may be less forthcoming from now, but this is also an opportunity to refine and refocus on our long-term objectives, including that of Taiwan’s higher educational system, he elaborated.

The Impact Rankings are calculated by weighing a school’s social participation and community-oriented initiatives, in which society as a whole benefits from the collaboration while gaining a new perspective of an academic institution’s overarching duties to its community and neighbors. The 17 markers encompassing gender equality, climate change, social stability, and health offer all 766 participating schools more insight on new challenges and solutions.

Calling for international cooperation in uniting against the virus, Dr. Su explained that NCNU will also deploy its strengths as delineated by the THE rankings and work with partner schools here and abroad to ensure that quality education remains accessible to students affected by the pandemic.

Ranging from safeguarding the environment’s sustainable future and upgrading industries to offering long-term caretaking and educational services to remote communities, NCNU's aspirations are backed by funding from the Ministry of Education’s Center for University Social Responsibility.

NCNU was also awarded NT$9 million by the Water Resources Agency under the “Regional Drainage Management and Environment Building Project” to enhance the campus’ efficient cache, management, and re-utilization of rainwater and other water sources. The Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Education have respectively allocated NT$5 million and NT$12 million as well for bolstering research on precision farming and technology, circular economy within the agricultural realm, and the development of a new plastics economy that is sustainable and tailored for Taiwan. The convergence of similar sets of strengths verified independently by Great Vision Magazine and Times Higher Education show that NCNU's ceaseless pursuits in campus governance, social participation, responsible education, and environmental sustainability are bearing fruit. Rooted in local, sustainable progress, NCNU sets sight on working with the world in bringing forth positive change for all.

Students from a remote school interact with a visiting lecturer of French nationality through an introductory course on the French language and culture arranged by NCNU.

NCNU's Department of Southeast Asian Studies is working with Bali-based associations to provide more resources, training, and employment opportunities to women from minority or disadvantaged groups in Indonesia.