The “Sweet Potato Ball Volunteer Team,” formed by students from the Bachelor Degree Program of Applied Science and Technology (Elite Skills Class) at Taiwan Tech, has leveraged the hands-on expertise gained through national skills competitions to actively engage in rural and local communities in recent years. Through maker education initiatives, the team promotes technology learning while fulfilling University Social Responsibility (USR). The team will hold a public presentation on April 11, 2026 (Saturday) at 11:00 AM at the Performance Hall of Bopiliao Historic Block. From April 10 to 12, a three-day exhibition and free hands-on workshops will also be open to the public. Activities include 3D printing pen creation, heat-transfer canvas bag design, and laser-cut cultural and creative products. These experiences allow visitors to better understand the practical value of integrating technical-vocational education with maker learning across disciplines, showcasing how skilled youth transform professional expertise into meaningful social impact. The public is warmly invited to attend and participate.

Centered on the theme “Maker Spirit in Rural Action”, the Sweet Potato Ball Volunteer Team consists entirely of award-winning competitors from national skills competitions. Their expertise spans mechanical engineering, interior wiring, and electrical and information technologies. The team is dedicated to introducing STEAM-based maker education, 3D printing, and digital technologies into rural areas, advancing technological equity. Since 2023, the team has reached communities across seven regions - New Taipei, Miaoli, Hsinchu, Changhua, Nantou, Yilan, and Hualien - delivering 22 customized workshops, mobilizing 96 volunteer participants, and serving over 510 residents. Through hands-on instruction, they guide local participants in using 3D printing and laser engraving to create practical items infused with local cultural characteristics, thereby promoting science education and strengthening community ties.

3D printing pen experience: activity design integrating emerging technologies with cultural and creative elements.

Beyond technical expertise, the team demonstrates a strong commitment to applying knowledge in real-world contexts and responding to local needs. Their efforts have been recognized by the Youth Development Administration, Ministry of Education, earning the 2025 “Rising Star Award” and the 2026 “Outstanding Youth Volunteer Award.” Team leader You-Hsuan Liao expressed a vision of “coming from rural areas and giving back to rural areas,” hoping to bring learning opportunities and joy to both elderly residents and children through technology experiences. Teacher Miao-Er Chen from Yuli Senior High School noted that the integration of local cultural elements in the curriculum enables participation across different groups, making the initiative a deeply moving example of USR in action. Faculty advisor Jia-Wen Hu highlighted that students have transitioned from competitors to educators - shifting from competition to collaborative learning - demonstrating the value of technical education combined with humanistic care and social responsiveness.

Skilled competition award winners guide both adults and children through hands-on laser engraving experiences.

Taiwan Tech’s “Skilled Talent Giving Back to Hometowns” initiative has been recognized with the 2026 Outstanding Practice Award by the Youth Development Administration, Ministry of Education.

Additionally, team leader Li-Chi Chang shared that while skills competitions strengthened his logical thinking and practical abilities, community service taught him how to translate professional knowledge and design accessible learning experiences. He has since founded Qi-Hsiang Technology Education Co., Ltd., continuing to promote science education in rural areas after graduation. Looking ahead, Taiwan Tech will continue advancing USR initiatives, supporting young people in transforming their technical expertise into tangible social impact - bringing skills beyond the classroom and into rural communities, and advancing technological equity through technical and vocational education.

To date, the Taiwan Tech’s “Maker Spirit in Rural Action” initiative has mobilized 96 outstanding students, conducted 22 events, and reached over 510 participants across seven counties and cities. The USR effort will continue to expand its impact and move forward sustainably.