TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — National Cheng Kung University and National University of Tainan on Thursday signed an agreement to expand academic exchanges and international talent training.

NCKU said the partnership will link up teaching and research resources and roll out new study paths for international students in Taiwan. It also aims to help students pick up skills they can carry into global careers.

Under the plan, NUTN students can first join exchange programs at the NCKU. They can then apply to its degree programs if they choose to continue their studies.

NCKU President Shen Meng-ju (沈孟儒) said Taiwan needs to attract more international students as local enrollment declines. He said teaming up with nearby schools helps round out programs and makes it easier for students to move on to further study.

NUTN President Chen Hui-ping (陳惠萍) said internationalization is a shared goal for both schools. She said areas such as music and drama offer strong potential to work together and reach overseas audiences.

CNA and Economic Daily News reported that the agreement also links to a broader domestic university alliance led by NCKU that began in July 2025. NUTN became the first public university to join the alliance in 2026.