International Visitors
UMONS Visits NTNU to Explore Academic Collaboration
On April 22, 2025, a delegation from the University of Mons (UMONS) in Belgium visited National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU) to explore potential collaboration in academic exchange, research, and Mandarin language education. The delegation was led by Prof. Philippe Dubois, Rector of UMONS, accompanied by Prof. Laurence Ris, Vice Rector for International Relations, and Prof. Kevin Henry, Head of the Department of Chinese Studies and East Asian Languages.
NTNU President Prof. Cheng-Chih Wu warmly welcomed the delegation, joined by Prof. Kwun-Min Chen, Executive Vice President, Prof. Yi-De Liu, Vice President of International Affairs, and Prof. Jia-Fei Hong, Associate Dean of the College of International Studies and Social Sciences. Also present was Prof. Redouane Borsali, a Yushan Fellow and Visiting Professor at National Taiwan University’s Department of Chemical Engineering. Prof. Borsali, a long-time academic colleague of Rector Dubois in the field of chemistry, was specially invited by President Wu to join the discussion in hopes of enhancing the connection between the two institutions in science and engineering.
During the meeting, both parties expressed mutual interest in signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and a Student Exchange Agreement (SEA) to establish a solid foundation for long-term cooperation. Discussions highlighted several key areas for collaboration.
Science and Engineering
Rector Dubois introduced UMONS' strengths in research and its collaboration with industry laboratories. He emphasized the university’s focus on dual PhD programs, with one-fourth of UMONS PhD programs already in international joint ventures. NTNU expressed interest in exploring joint doctoral training models and cross-institutional research initiatives.
Mandarin Language Education
Prof. Henry discussed opportunities for collaboration in Mandarin language education. He explained that UMONS is currently seeking to expand its students' Mandarin learning experience by partnering with institutions outside of China. He acknowledged NTNU’s long-standing reputation in Mandarin language education and expressed interest in developing programs that would allow UMONS students to study Mandarin at NTNU.