- New Taiwan partnership opens up Mandarin language learning and cultural exchange
- Program includes scholarships, study abroad, and online learning for U of I students
- Focus on career building skills in semiconductors, AI, data science, and global leadership
The University of Illinois System is deepening its global education efforts through a new collaboration with Taiwan’s University Academic Alliance (UAAT). The initiative aims to expand Mandarin language learning and cultural exposure for students across its Urbana Champaign, Chicago, and Springfield campuses, helping prepare them for careers in globally connected industries.
The partnership is led by National Tsing Hua University (NTHU), one of Asia’s top research universities, and supported locally by the Center for East Asian and Pacific Studies at UIUC. The UAAT Mandarin Education Program supports both language learning and job focused skills in fast growing sectors such as AI, quantum technology, semiconductors, and data science.
The program is already underway. In its first year, five U of I students received scholarships to attend an intensive 12 week summer course at NTHU’s Chinese Language Center in Taiwan. Before traveling, they completed a 120 hour online Mandarin course taught by staff in Urbana-Champaign, connecting them with language partners in Taiwan.
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UAAT has also opened a liaison office in Urbana-Champaign to host language and cultural events and support future exchanges. The office will be officially inaugurated on October 15.
This collaboration goes beyond the classroom, it builds bridges between universities, cultures, and industries, empowering students with the skills and exposure needed in a competitive global job market.
