Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) recently welcomed a distinguished academic delegation from Taiwan’s National Chung Cheng University (CCU) and its Advanced Institute of Manufacturing for High-tech Innovations (AIM-HI), marking a significant milestone in strengthening international partnerships in engineering education and research.

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The visit, held on 11 December 2025 and led by Professor Yong-Song Chen, Division Head of International Cooperation & Exchange at CCU, provided a strategic platform for in-depth discussions on collaborative opportunities in smart manufacturing and green technologies—key areas shaping the future of sustainable innovation and advanced engineering. 

Purposeful Engagement to Broaden Global Perspectives

More than a courtesy call, the visit was designed to offer an eye-opening opportunity for students by fostering international exposure and enabling them to develop global competencies that are increasingly essential in today’s interconnected world. 

The engagement reflects a shared commitment by both institutions to prepare future-ready graduates who can thrive across borders and industries. 

The visit was coordinated and organised by Ir Dr Yvette Shaan-Li Susiapan, Lead Coordinator for Transnational Education Programmes at APU, whose leadership ensured a productive and meaningful exchange between both parties. 

Distinguished Delegation and Academic Exchange

The AIM-HI delegation was joined by Ms Yi-Chieh Yen, Project Coordinator for Education & Training, and was warmly received by APU’s leadership and engineering academics. 

Representing APU were Professor Ir EUR ING Dr Vinesh Thiruchelvam, Chief Innovation & Enterprise Officer; Associate Professor Ir Dr Siva Kumar Sivanesan, Head of the School of Engineering; Assistant Professor Ir EUR ING Ts Dr Lau Chee Yong, Head of Visionary AI Studio; and Assistant Professor Ir Ts Dr Alexander Chee Hon Cheong, Programme Leader for the School of Engineering. 

Introducing the Taiwan Experience Education Program (TEEP)

A key highlight of the visit was the introduction of the Taiwan Experience Education Program (TEEP) by the AIM-HI delegation. Unlike conventional internships, TEEP immerses students in a research-driven ecosystem, allowing them to work alongside leading academics and industry experts on real-world projects in smart manufacturing, green technologies, and high-tech innovations. 

Beyond technical training, the programme places strong emphasis on cross-cultural learning. Participants gain access to state-of-the-art laboratories, cutting-edge tools, and collaborative research platforms, while developing critical thinking, innovation, and problem-solving skills essential for future leadership roles. 

Opening Doors to International Exposure and Research Pathways

The delegation underscored that TEEP is more than an internship—it is a gateway to global networking, academic collaboration, and impactful research. For APU students, this initiative presents a unique opportunity to gain international exposure and hands-on experience within Taiwan’s advanced engineering and technology sectors. 

Insights shared during the bilateral discussions also provided valuable perspectives on international career pathways, joint research initiatives, knowledge-sharing programmes, and academic exchanges that are expected to benefit both institutions and contribute to regional technological progress. 

A Shared Vision for a Global Learning Environment

This visit reflects APU’s strategic vision of cultivating a truly international learning environment through meaningful global partnerships. 

“Collaborations with esteemed institutions such as CCU’s AIM-HI enable us to transcend geographical boundaries in education and research,” said Professor Vinesh Thiruchelvam. 

“Through these partnerships, APU continues to expand pathways for high-impact research, knowledge exchange, and international experiential learning—empowering our students and academics to remain globally relevant, innovative, and at the forefront of technological advancement.”