The Taiwan Studies Centre opened at Comenius University

Bratislava, 28 November, 2024: On Wednesday, the Taiwan Studies Centre was officially opened at the Faculty of Management of Comenius University Bratislava (FM). CU views this event as an important step forward in promoting academic and cultural cooperation between Taiwan and Slovakia.


09. 12. 2024 14.10 hod.
By: External Relations Office

The Taiwan Studies Centre received financial support from the Ministry of Education of Taiwan. The opening ceremony was attended by François Chihchung Wu, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Taiwan, Ambassador David Nan-Yang Lee from the Taipei Representative Office in Bratislava and other diplomatic officials of Taiwan.

The university was represented by FM dean Peter Štarchoň and Vice-Rector for External Relations Radomír Masaryk, who expressed support for this new academic initiative. "The Taiwan Studies Centre will become a centre of academic research and cultural engagement. Through various activities, we aim to create a dynamic space where students, researchers and the public can explore Taiwan's rich history, its vibrant culture and its critical role on the global stage," said Radomír Masaryk who also called for mutual understanding, cultural exchange and development of relations between the two countries.

In his speech, François Chihchung Wu emphasized his own academic background and said it was a great pleasure and honour for him to visit a university under these circumstances. He highlighted Taiwan's achievements in science and in the area of foreign technology investments.

Sascha Klotzbücher from the Department of East European Studies of the Faculty of Arts helped create the centre and will be its first leader. "All present and upcoming lectures, workshops and film screenings are intended for all students and the public, just like our sinology students. Everyone interested in Taiwan will be able to hear a range of opinions and gain new insights into the current affairs of this country and East Asia in general," said Associate Professor Klotzbücher. "We believe the center will become a dynamic place of inspiration and collaboration," added FM dean Peter Štarchoň.

The Taiwan Studies Centre will serve as a platform for academic research and cultural exchange. Through initiatives like lecture series on Taiwan and film screenings it will offer students, researchers and the public the opportunity to explore Taiwan's rich history and culture, as well as its significant position on the global stage. By its establishment, CU emphasizes its commitment to the development of international cooperation and academic excellence.