The Semiconductor Talent Incubation Program, a project focused on acquiring future candidates for the semiconductor industry, commenced on Wednesday. The program is a joint initiative by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the German state of Saxony, and the Dresden University of Technology.
National Taiwan University (NTU) held the program’s opening ceremony, inaugurating a new era of cross-border development. 30 German university students from six different countries will soon begin studies at NTU for a semester, followed by practical training at TSMC's factory in Taichung.
NTU launched the program with eight semiconductor courses, overseen by eight NTU professors from various departments. The Office of International Affairs will also organize Mandarin classes and cultural workshops for students to provide a rich cultural experience before their return to Germany.
NTU International Affairs Vice President Yuan Hsiao-wei (袁孝維) noted as this is the program's pilot year, students currently only pay administrative fees. She adds that with the expectation of a new contract being signed next year, and with training fees to be paid by participants, the program could potentially accommodate hundreds of students.
NTU hopes to lead the way then, inviting other institutions like National Tsing Hua University, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, and others to make way for the increased capacity of participants.