Purdue Honors College Visit NCKU for Cross-Cultural Experience

Since 2020, NCKU and Purdue University have partnered on the NCKU-Purdue 3+1+1 Dual Degree Program, now in its fifth year. Building on this foundation, the two universities and National Taiwan University (NTU) jointly launched a new interdisciplinary course in 2025—Solutions Lab Global. Co-organized by Purdue’s Honors College, NCKU, and NTU, the course brings together students from diverse academic backgrounds for a cross-institutional, cross-disciplinary experience. Through intercultural dialogue and team-based learning, it fosters critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills to address global challenges.

This year’s theme focused on “The Economic Impact of the Post-Pandemic Era on Taiwan and the U.S.” Starting March 4, students attended online classes twice a week, with special topics delivered by faculty from Purdue, NTUST, and NCKU. Faculty and students from all three universities actively exchanged ideas and perspectives.

In mid-May, Dr. Leighton Buntain from Purdue’s Honors College led nine students to Taiwan for a two-week Study Away program. At NCKU, they visited research centers, joined a hands-on workshop to build Bluetooth speakers, and attended classes. NCKU students from the dual degree program hosted them, guiding cultural activities and visits to landmarks like Chihkan Tower and the National Museum of Taiwan History. This immersive cultural exchange broadened students’ global perspectives and deepened collaboration between the three universities, opening new possibilities for future academic cooperation.