President Ma Ying-jeou is encouraging young people to learn a second language. He says a new language presents a window to a new world and will help one become more competitive. He was speaking to a delegation from the Rotary Youth Exchange on Monday.
The president cited that some European countries have very successful youth exchange programs. He encourages Taiwan’s young people to live and travel abroad and to learn as much as they can when they do so. As they do, they can even play the role of youth ambassadors and let others know more about Taiwan.
Since coming to office, President Ma has encouraged young people to go abroad for study or working holidays, and more and more young people are doing so. The number of countries giving Taiwan nationals visa-free entry has also grown from 54 to 142 and more countries will be added in the future.