(Adapted and excerpted from CommonWealth Magazine, Issue 834, “Future Higher Education” column, October 14, 2025, https://www.cw.com.tw/article/5137795)

Amid Taiwan’s declining birthrate, higher education is facing unprecedented enrollment challenges. To cope with shrinking domestic student numbers, universities are actively expanding international recruitment, with strategies to cultivate and retain overseas talent becoming the key to competitiveness.

In terms of cultivation, Taiwan Tech has achieved remarkable results: it ranks first in Taiwan for both the number and proportion of international graduate students, who now make up 17% of the student body, including over 40% of all Ph.D. candidates. This not only underscores Taiwan Tech’s strong global appeal but also reflects its visibility in academic research, industry collaboration, and international partnerships.

To retain talent, Taiwan Tech has proactively developed diverse programs and matchmaking platforms to help international students transition smoothly into Taiwan’s job market. During career fairs, booths featuring the “Global Talent from Taiwan Tech” label identify companies open to hiring international graduates. Each fall, a dedicated job fair for international students offers direct connections with employers. Meanwhile, the “Finding A to Z” Talent Wall lists nearly 200 companies and research institutions that have hired Taiwan Tech’s international alumni, serving as a valuable resource for career development.

Still, despite widespread labor shortages, companies often face two main challenges when employing foreign graduates: language barriers and cultural differences. Many international students have limited Chinese proficiency, while some mid-level managers struggle with English, leading to communication gaps. Differences in workplace culture and habits can also cause misunderstandings or friction.

Although universities are not employment agencies, they have become a vital bridge between industry and global talent. As more companies embrace hiring international graduates, Taiwan not only alleviates labor shortages but also gains from the fresh perspectives of multicultural teams, driving businesses toward greater internationalization and sustainable growth.