Taiwan's Minghsin University of Science and Technology, as part of the government's work-study program, is on track to train more than 200 Filipino engineers in the coming years, the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) said in a statement.
MECO Chair Silvestre Bello III with officials of the Minghsin University of Science and Technology in Taiwan following the graduation that included 53 Filipinos under the Taiwan government's work-study program.
MECO Chair Silvestre H. Bello III said the university had already graduated 73 Filipino students who completed a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering major in Management (IEM).
The first batch, consisting entirely of female engineers, graduated in February, and the second batch of 53 students completed their studies last week.
Since its launch in March 2019, Taiwan's work-study program has already benefited 201 Filipino students from different regions in the Philippines.
"I express our gratitude to the Minghsin University management and teachers for your dedication and hard work especially as you orient, accompany and oversee the students' academic progress as well as their social, cultural and spiritual journey in Taiwan," Bello said in his graduation message.
The work-study scheme is part of Taiwan's Academe-Industry Collaboration Program and offers a four-year baccalaureate degree that integrates study and internship opportunities.
Students will also receive intensive Mandarin language training and undergo internship programs at industrial and semiconductor companies located in the Hsinchu Science and Industrial Park.
Upon completion of the internship period, students are provided with immediate employment prospects following their graduation.
Out of the total number of Filipino graduates, only two have chosen not to continue working in Taiwan. One graduate has decided to pursue further studies in Australia, while another has returned to the Philippines to establish her own business.
The selection of beneficiaries for the work-study program is done in collaboration with the Congregation of Missionary Sisters of Saint Charles Borromeo through various dioceses in the Philippines.