Professor Eric Chu, Dean of International Affairs at National Chi Nan University, was invited to attend the “Belize–Taiwan Education Exchange Conference” held at 9:00 a.m. on April 13, 2026, at the auditorium on the first floor of the International Cooperation and Development Fund in Taipei. The conference was chaired by H.E. Katherine Meighan (Ambassador Meighan), reflecting the high level of the event and underscoring the strong commitment of both Belize and Taiwan to advancing educational cooperation.

The conference was chaired by H.E. Katherine Meighan (Ambassador Meighan)

Ms. Diane Castillo-Maheia, Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Education of Belize, poses for a group photo with Professor Eric Chu, Dean of International Affairs at National Chi Nan University

Dr. Vincent Palacio, President of the University of Belize, poses for a group photo with Professor Eric Chu, Dean of International Affairs at National Chi Nan University

During the conference, Dr. Vincent Palacio, President of the University of Belize, delivered a keynote presentation outlining the university’s overall strategic planning in higher education development, the advancement of medical education, and international collaboration initiatives. He also highlighted the institution’s positioning within the regional higher education landscape. Participants engaged in in-depth discussions on potential areas of cooperation, including student exchange, short-term study programs, and dual-degree arrangements, with lively and productive interactions throughout the session.

Professor Eric Chu, Dean of International Affairs at National Chi Nan University, noted during the conference that the university has long been committed to advancing the internationalization of higher education. It has actively developed English-taught programs that integrate artificial intelligence, information technology, and industry applications, with the aim of cultivating globally competitive professionals. Looking ahead, he emphasized that the university will continue to deepen cooperative relationships with allied nations, expand sources of international students, and promote tangible outcomes in cross-border educational exchange.

The conference also featured a Q&A session and open exchange of views, facilitating the development of mutual understanding and consensus on future educational cooperation between both sides. In closing, H.E. Katherine Meighan (Ambassador Meighan) delivered concluding remarks and joined all participants for a group photo, symbolizing the continued strengthening of educational cooperation between Belize and Taiwan.

H.E. Katherine Meighan (Ambassador Meighan), Belize Ambassador to Taiwan, poses for a group photo with Professor Eric Chu, Dean of International Affairs at National Chi Nan University.

This visit to Taipei to attend a high-level education exchange event at the International Cooperation and Development Fund not only demonstrated National Chi Nan University’s concrete achievements in actively advancing internationalization, but also further enhanced the university’s visibility and influence in the global higher education arena, laying a solid foundation for future expansion of cooperation in the Central American region.

Writer: Dean Eric Chu