【News Report by National Education Radio】

by Annie Liu and Dr. Yi-Ching Pan

National Pingtung University has consistently promoted USR Programs to fulfill its university social responsibilities. Among these initiatives, the SUZAKU PIONEER Project stands out as a prime example of the university's commitment to addressing rural education issues in Pingtung County. This year, SUZAKU PIONEER once again achieved recognition by winning the Golden Award at the 2023 TSAA (Taiwan and Asia-Specific Sustainable Action Awards), building on its success from the previous year. During a recent meeting of Educational University leaders, Ms. Wu, the Director of the Department of Teacher and Art Education, presented a case study on the SUZAKU PIONEER Project, receiving strong approval and support.

As reported by Ms. Wu, the Director of the Department of Teacher and Art Education, 43% of elementary schools in Pingtung County are located in remote areas. Following discussions with the Pingtung County Government's Department of Education, the team identified the key challenges currently faced by schools in these remote areas, which include a high turnover rate among rural teachers, a lack of professional competencies among them, challenges in establishing teacher communities, and a deficiency in on-the-job training for rural teachers.

The SUZAKU PIONEER Project has chosen the Phoenix as its symbol. Its feather represents the sustainability of education, and its vivid colors imply care for rural education in Pingtung County. The team looks forward to the collaborative growth and prosperity in the three-division co-learning model among educators, aiming to make a significant impact on rural education.