11/05/2026
《2026 Outstanding Graduate Student Award》PART 3
——————————————————
MOE Taiwan Scholarship | Academic Achievement Award
Kaohsiung Medical University - India - Naorem Jemes Meitei
My journey to Taiwan began with a strong desire to pursue advanced research in a dynamic and internationally recognized academic environment. Taiwan stood out to me not only for its excellence in scientific research but also for its welcoming atmosphere, safety, and commitment to supporting international students. The opportunity provided by the Ministry of Education (MOE) Taiwan Scholarship played a significant role in my decision, as it allowed me to focus entirely on my studies without the burden of financial concerns. Receiving the Outstanding Graduate Student Award is a meaningful recognition of my dedication, perseverance, and passion for research throughout my journey in Taiwan. It reflects not only my individual efforts but also the guidance and support of my mentors, colleagues, and the academic environment that has shaped my growth.
I am currently pursuing my PhD at Kaohsiung Medical University, where my research focuses on inorganic and bioinorganic chemistry, particularly exploring reaction mechanisms, catalysis, and functional properties of transition metal complexes. Like any international student, my journey was not without challenges. Adapting to a new country, language, and academic system required patience and persistence. In the beginning, communication barriers and differences in research culture felt overwhelming. However, with time, support from my advisors, colleagues, and friends, I gradually became more confident and comfortable.
One of the most memorable aspects of my time in Taiwan has been the opportunity to travel and present my research in different parts of the country and abroad. Attending conferences and academic events allowed me to interact with researchers from various fields, exchange ideas, and gain broader perspectives on my work. Living in Taiwan has also been a culturally enriching experience. From the warmth and kindness of people to the balance between tradition and modernity, Taiwan has offered me a unique environment to grow.
To future scholarship recipients, I would like to say that the MOE Taiwan Scholarship is more than just financial support—it is a platform that opens doors. It provides the freedom to focus on your studies, the opportunity to explore a new culture, and the environment to grow both academically and personally. My time in Taiwan has been a transformative experience, and I am grateful for the opportunities it has given me.
--
MOFA Taiwan Scholarship | Academic Achievement Award
National Tsing Hua University - Haiti - Berlainie Joachim(喬婉婷)
I am a recipient of the Taiwan MOFA scholarship, and I am graduating in June with a bachelor's in Business Administration at NTHU. I have been in Taiwan for almost five years now, and when I tell people where I am from, one of the first questions that often comes up is: “Why did you choose to go that far away from your country?” Most of these people are not aware of the strong diplomatic ties that have existed between Taiwan and my country, Haiti, for 70 years now, and do not realize how professional and cultural exchange is a core component of that collaboration. I came to know about Taiwan when I was only 10 years old, after the Tzu Chi Foundation rebuilt my school, which had been destroyed during the devastating earthquake that struck the capital in January 2010.
I felt so grateful for their help, and since then, I have come to see the Taiwanese as very generous and kind-hearted people. Later on, at the age of 17, I read an article by a Haitian author talking about Taiwan’s rapid economic growth during the last 50 years, and discussing how Haiti could follow this example. At that time, I happened to be developing a passion for economics, so I became interested in Taiwan’s economy. I’ve always liked to do things differently and had a taste for adventure. That’s why when I graduated from high school, Taiwan seemed to be the best choice for me to pursue higher education.
Studying in Taiwan as a MOFA scholarship has been a tremendously nurturing experience. I’ve made wonderful connections, including friends and long-term partners, and tried a lot of new things. One of the toughest challenges has been dealing with the language barrier. Traveling around the country has greatly enhanced my cultural adaptation process. I made my most memorable experiences when traveling locally. My favorite cities are Taipei and Kaohsiung. I fell in love with places like Sun Moon Lake and Taroko National Park.
When I found out that I was chosen for the Outstanding Graduate Student Award, I felt proud and honored. Coming to Taiwan for my studies was one of the most important decisions I’ve taken in my life so far. The journey has not been all roses; it was even bitter sometimes, but I am enjoying it. Thank you to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for this incredible opportunity!
--
MOFA Taiwan Scholarship | Academic Achievement Award
Kun Shan University - Eswatini - Khanya Mfrero Tsabedze(薩貝茲)
Taiwan has always stood out to me as a dynamic and forward-thinking nation, widely recognized for its excellence in technology, engineering, and high-quality education. This admiration deepened when I was granted the MOFA Taiwan Scholarship, an opportunity that not only affirmed my academic aspirations but also opened the door to a life-changing journey. Studying in such an innovative and globally connected environment has allowed me to grow both intellectually and personally. I would say one of the most meaningful parts of my study experience in Taiwan was when I received the Outstanding Graduate Student Award. Receiving the award validated the discipline, effort, and perseverance I had put into pursuing my studies.
During my time studying abroad, I faced numerous challenges: primarily adjusting to an entirely foreign education system; overcoming language barriers; and integrating myself into daily life within a completely foreign setting. However, I always maintained a firm resolve to learn from each challenge and to grow stronger because of each obstacle. I consistently used discipline, sought out support from my instructors and peers, and continually improved my English speaking abilities in order to overcome each individual obstacle. Ultimately, these obstacles turned out to be invaluable learning opportunities that increased my ability to persevere under adversity and develop greater independence.
While adapting to a new way of life in Taiwan, I was able to incorporate many of the elements of the local culture into my everyday existence. I sampled food typical of Taiwan's cuisine, visited the numerous night markets available throughout Taiwan, and attended various traditional celebrations. One of the best memories I have created in Taiwan was participating in the celebration of the Chinese New Year with my fellow classmates. The experience of living in Taiwan has not only given me solid technical knowledge in engineering but also taught me a number of important soft skills, such as being adaptable, communicating effectively, and solving complex problems.
In terms of my professional aspirations, I will continue to strive for creating new innovations and solving complex problems using technology while continuing to develop myself personally and professionally. My advice to other students would be to maintain consistency, continue to seek knowledge and information, and do not be afraid of challenges or making mistakes. For future recipients of scholarships, I would encourage you to utilize every opportunity that comes your way; immerse yourself in the culture; and create lasting relationships. Overall, this has been a truly transformative experience, and receiving the award signifies not only a personal achievement but also represents the opportunities that I have been lucky enough to have while studying abroad.
--
MOE Taiwan Scholarship | Academic Achievement Award
Taipei Medical University - Vietnam - Nguyen Manh Quan(阮孟權)
Looking back on the past four years learning for a Ph.D. in the School of Pharmacy at Taipei Medical University, I can say with confidence that this journey has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life - academically, professionally, and personally. Before I moved overseas, I thought of Taiwan as a small and active island known for TSMC's dominance in the semiconductor sector. What made me want to do a Ph.D. here was Taiwan's great reputation in science and pharmacy research. Taiwan's friendly and welcoming people, its wide variety of Asian foods, and bubble milk tea all drew me in.
I still vividly remember the day EVA Air carried me away from my homeland of Vietnam, touching down in Taipei on September 1st, 2022. Those first days were emotionally difficult. I felt homesick and uncertain. After quarantine, I faced small but memorable challenges: navigating supermarkets, getting lost on public transit, and even arriving at National Taipei University instead of National Taiwan University. To overcome the language barrier, I learned Mandarin with the Duolingo application and used the Taipei MRT app to help me get around the city.
I pursued my Ph.D. in the School of Pharmacy at TMU in the field. I was lucky to receive help from my supervisor, Professor Jing-Ping Liou, and co-supervisor Professor Chia-Li Han. I am pleased to receive the Taiwan Ministry of Education (MOE) scholarship, which helped me study and research during my doctoral program. During my time in Taiwan, I received multiple awards at international conferences, including FAPA in Taiwan, HUPO in South Korea, Dresden in Germany, and Vietnam.
Besides studying, I also ran marathons, including four half-marathons and two 10 km races. I visited many places in Taiwan, such as Tamsui, Daan Park, JiuFen Old Street, Taipei 101, and Sun Moon Lake. I encourage students to study in Taiwan. I will never forget receiving the Outstanding Graduate Student Award. After graduation, I plan to return to Vietnam as a lecturer and continue research collaborations with Taiwan. Taiwan has given me knowledge, resilience, friendship, and a vision for the future.
--
MOFA Taiwan Scholarship | Academic Achievement Award
National Pingtung University of Science and Technology - Palau - Edson Kaweo Ngiraiwet(倪艾森)
My journey in Taiwan began with a vision of growth, inspired by a cousin who had previously found academic success here. As a student from the Republic of Palau, I now view Taiwan as my second home; it is an incredibly welcoming place, and I have fallen deeply in love with the culture, the people, and the daily way of life. This experience would not have been possible without the support of my scholarship program. It provided the essential foundation for me to navigate life in a new country and fostered a community where international students can grow together in knowledge, respect, and perseverance. Being here has allowed me to act as an ambassador for my home country.
My academic path has been defined by both significant challenges and rewarding milestones. The most demanding period was my first year of intensive Mandarin study, a rigorous requirement that tested my resolve. I found my stride through sports; playing baseball for the National Pingtung University of Science and Technology (NPUST) team provided me with a sense of discipline that guided my lifestyle. One of my most cherished memories is winning a game in Kaohsiung while representing NPUST, a moment that boosted my confidence and fueled my drive.
Winning the Outstanding Graduate Student Award is a profound honor that validates the years of effort I have invested in my education. This drive has been particularly evident in my research within the field of Aquaculture. Under the guidance of Dr. Omkar Vijay Byadgi, I have been investigating fish pathogens and identifying bacteria with the potential to be developed into probiotics. Immersing myself in the scientific process has been incredibly rewarding, and I am proud to contribute to new learnings that can impact the industry.
Looking ahead, my time in Taiwan has served as a massive leap in preparation for my future career. To my fellow students and future scholarship recipients, my advice is simple: do not give up when things get difficult. Use those challenges to improve yourself, because you are the one building your future. Finally, I want to express my deepest gratitude to God and my family for their unwavering support throughout this incredible journey.
