In recognizing each other’s strengths in education, technology, culture, economic and industrial development and in order to contribute positively to the strengthening of education and learning-related linkages together, a Memorandum of Understanding between the Department of International and Cross-strait Education, Ministry of Education of the Republic of China (Taiwan), and the Higher Education Department of the State of New Mexico in the United States of America was signed by Director General Abraham W.S. Chu of TECO and the Cabinet Secretary Barbara Damron. This historic signing ceremony took place in Los Angles, California on August 13th 2018, and was honor witnessed by the Minister of Education Jiunn-roung Yeh and Governor Susana Martinez.
The signed MOU symbolizes the beginning of a long lasting friendship and significant milestone for future collaborations, including the promotion of financial aid opportunities for students; the creation of a supportive environment for academic institutions, research centers, companies, associations, and agencies to engage in collaborative project development and implementation; the promotion of innovative and technological development; mutual participation in coordination and planning activities related to education, science, technology, and innovation; the promotion of partnerships with the private sector to create favorable economic development; strengthening the appreciation within New Mexico and Taiwan of each other’s cultural and ethnic diversity; and the promotion of functional bilingualism and associated cultural awareness.
Minister of Education Jiunn-roung Yeh was delighted to witness the signing ceremony, “We used to say Taiwanese people dig into ground for everything for our national development because we don’t have many natural resources. That’s why we value education so much and the same as New Mexico. We both spent lots of efforts on policy reforms. As I observe the globalized world, with the increase of student mobility, it’s almost impossible that we do education alone. We need to build up network to help each other, not only for science and technology, but also for our commitment to democracy, humanity values and cultural diversity, etc. Thus this collaboration will strengthen the backbone, that is, education, in our human society. This collaboration is beneficial for two parties. It’s a small step but a significant milestone for future collaboration.”
The Governor of the State of New Mexico Susana Martinez expressed her recognition of the importance of this MOU and her expectation for future collaboration,“It’s clear that both of our governments are committed to providing our students with an exceptional learning experience after high school. By working with Taiwan we will be strengthening our contribution to education, technology, culture, and economic development and encouraging future support and cooperation between our two governments.”
Director General Abraham W.S. Chu in TECO-LA also pointed out that the energy, high technology and national defense industry in the State of New Mexico are competitive, and our government is promoting 5+2 innovative industries program, so it is hoped that in addition to education, our economic and technology departments will discuss further collaboration with the State of New Mexico for reciprocal benefits. It is expected further collaboration in different aspects will be foster soon in the near future.
The MOU Signing Ceremony between the Ministry of Education and the State of New Mexico (From right to left：Minister of Education Jiunn-roung Yeh, Director General Abraham W.S.Chu of TECO in Los Angeles, Governor of the State of New Mexico Susana Martinez, and Cabinet Secretary Barbara Damron of the New Mexico Higher Education Department)
