NCKU Partners with MUNI to Advance Cybersecurity, Semiconductors, Biomedicine, and Sustainability

Martin Bareš, rector of the Masaryk University (MUNI) in the Czech Republic, led a delegation to National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) on February 10–11, 2026, during which the two institutions signed a strategic partnership agreement. Discussions focused on semiconductors, cybersecurity, biomedicine, and environmental sustainability, with plans to launch pilot projects and develop long-term collaborations.

The presidential meeting, co-chaired by NCKU President Meng-Ru Shen and Rector Bareš, highlighted the steady growth of collaboration since 2017. President Shen thanked the delegation for their visit, while Rector Bareš expressed anticipation of deeper engagement in academic collaboration, joint research, and student exchanges. The agreement marks the highest level of academic cooperation between the two universities.

Rector Bareš introduced the MUNI BioPharma Hub, scheduled for completion in May 2026, offering modern pharmaceutical education and small-batch drug manufacturing to strengthen research-to-industry translation. He also presented plans for the Science and Technology Park in Brno, noting similarities with NCKU’s healthcare services and innovation park planning.

▲ MUNI Rector Martin Bareš and NCKU President Meng-Ru Shen

Following the presidential meeting, Executive Vice President Shyy-Woei Chang chaired a university-level cooperation meeting. Vice President Sun-Yuan Hsieh overviewed NCKU’s development and international strategy, recapped past exchanges, and encouraged MUNI students to pursue study opportunities at NCKU via the Taiwan–Europe Connectivity Scholarship. Executive Vice President Chang also introduced the Global Research Interaction Program, a matching fund initiative supporting joint research projects. Both sides expressed interest in expanding collaboration in joint research, co-authored publications, dual-degree programs, faculty and student exchanges, industry partnerships, and international research funding.

The delegation toured NCKU facilities, including the Core Facility Center, Intelligent Manufacturing Research Center, Medical Device Innovation Center, and the Center for Crystal Research at the Southern Taiwan Science Park. Associate Dean Ming-Chi Mitch Chou showcased state-of-the-art silicon carbide crystal growth technologies and guided the delegation through the exhibition room.