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National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University

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  • President's Letter

  • Publish Date:2024-12-26
Letters from the President: 06. Companionship: The Silent Power of Education
Letters from the President: 06. Companionship: The Silent Power of Education
The president accompanies his daughter in learning the violin.
(Image credit: Kuan-Yun Chen)
 
Narrated by NYCU President Chi-Hung Lin
Interviewed by Yen-Shen Chen, Written by Yen-Chien Lai
Proofread by Yu-An Lu
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As the university president, I am often asked about my views on education. However, as a teacher, my greater concern lies in accompanying students on their journey of growth and progress. Today, I wish to share a broader perspective on “companionship.” Companionship extends beyond the confines of family and school, encompassing our interactions with society and local communities. I believe education is not merely about imparting knowledge or solving problems-it is about “walking alongside” students, nurturing them as they grow, and empowering them to take flight on their own as they forge their own path forward.

The Story of My Daughter and Her Violin

As a father of two, I have gained firsthand insight into the profound meaning of “companionship.” One particularly memorable moment was accompanying my daughter on her journey of learning the violin.

After more than a year of violin lessons, I believed she was progressing well. However, one day, her teacher revealed a surprising truth-she couldn’t actually read sheet music. Instead, she had been relying on her ear and memory to play. This revelation left me both shocked and concerned. That evening, I decided to help her learn music notation myself. Sitting together in the living room, we embarked on a long night of learning.

For most people, reading sheet music is the starting point of musical education, but for my daughter, it was a towering wall to climb. The notes looked like an alien language to her, and she often broke down in tears. I felt like a climbing guide watching her struggle at the edge of a cliff. I knew this was a challenge she had to overcome on her own, and my role was to accompany her every step of the way.

That night, I realized something profound: companionship is not merely about physical presence-it is about providing support and patience. While we cannot solve every problem for our children, we can face their struggles alongside them, letting them know they are never alone. This shared journey becomes a powerful source of strength.

“Big Brothers and Sisters Teach Semiconductors”

The power of companionship extends beyond family, reaching into education and the broader community. At NYCU, we launched a program called Big Brothers and Sisters Teach Semiconductors-a practical example of how universities can fulfill their social responsibilities.

The semiconductor industry is a cornerstone of Taiwan’s economy, yet it often feels distant and inaccessible to many students. Through this program, NYCU undergraduates visit primary and secondary schools, using simple and engaging methods to introduce the world of semiconductors. By “playing games,” students embark on a hands-on learning journey, transforming abstract concepts into tangible and enjoyable experiences. It is like standing at the base of a magnificent mountain, inspiring them to one day aspire to climb it. This spark of curiosity motivates students to explore and learn as they grow.
 
 





This program not only makes semiconductors interesting and accessible to younger students but also helps our undergraduates develop skills in communicating knowledge and building connections. For primary and secondary school students, these big brothers and sisters are more than just knowledge transmitters-they become role models, inspiring them to envision greater possibilities for the future.

Through this program, we’ve come to understand that education is not just about teaching-it’s about connecting resources and bridging gaps. NYCU students transcend generational divides, gaining insight into societal needs and challenges. They design courses that directly respond to and support local communities. This peer-learning model not only nurtures individual growth but also fosters meaningful cross-generational integration.

Companionship as a Guiding Signpost

Companionship is like a signpost along a road. It doesn’t pull you forward but quietly points the way when you feel lost. In the process of companionship, rather than rushing to provide answers, it is more meaningful to explore alongside those we support. This philosophy underpins initiatives such as the mindfulness workshops organized by our Office of Student Affairs.
 
University is a pivotal stage in life. For NYCU students, who often face intense academic competition, uncertainty about the future, and interpersonal challenges, the pressure can be overwhelming. Nonviolent communication (NVC) and Mindfulness practices have emerged as essential tools to help students navigate these challenges and develop resilience.

NVC emphasizes empathy and listening rather than authority or control, while mindfulness encourages students to pause amidst stress, listen to their inner voice, and connect with others in a peaceful way. This approach doesn’t offer simple solutions or foster dependency. Instead, it helps students discover their inner strength and build the confidence needed to face the future.

Reflecting on the night I kept my daughter company as she learned to read music, I began questioning my insistence on her mastering sheet music. Was it truly essential for her future if she wasn’t planning to become a musician? Or was it my own pride driving this insistence?

The true essence of companionship lies not in imposing our expectations but in supporting children or students as they seek their own answers. Sometimes, there isn’t a single “right” answer. As teachers or parents, our role is not to solve every problem but to walk alongside them, offering guidance as they navigate challenges and discover their path.
May we all find shared growth and meaning in the journey of companionship.


 
President of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University,
President of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University,
 
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