In this era of globalization and regional interconnectivity, individuals with high global mobility are in constant demand. The NSP fosters educational collaborations that invite top students from NSP nations to pursue higher education in Taiwan, and retaining these graduates has emerged as an effective tactic in Taiwan's global talent acquisition.
In 2016, Taiwan welcomed approximately 32,000 students from the 18 NSP nations, making up just 27.7% of the international student body. In 2022, however, thanks to the active promotion of NSP educational initiatives, this number doubled to 66,000, or 63.8% of all international students. Among them, Vietnam led the way with more than 23,000 students, followed by Indonesia with nearly 17,000, and Malaysia with 12,000.
As part of these initiatives, the Ministry of Education has also established industry-academic partnerships tailored to meet industry demands in such diverse fields as long-term care, nursing, agriculture, precision machinery, and logistics management. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also rolled out the "New Southbound Policy Elite Study Program" focused on medicine, semiconductor technology, and regional security. And the Overseas Community Affairs Council has established programs designed to help overseas Compatriot students develop skills in mechanical, electrical and electronic engineering, tourism, logistics management, e-commerce, and horticulture.
Source: Office of Trade Negotiations, Executive Yuan. (2023).‘The Number of NSP Students in Taiwan Double: Graduates Opt to Stay in Taiwan and Offer Their Skills’, The New Southbound Policy: The Pursuit of Mutual Prosperity, Benefits, Sharing, and Consensus, October 2023, 14 https://www.ey.gov.tw/otn/F0631889C2B547DF/dd70d14d-cf1c-47a8-a452-d08c9bcabef2