NTHU Alumni Association voices support for President Kao Weng-yuan amid integrity questions

The National Tsing Hua University (NTHU) Alumni Association has issued a statement expressing strong support for President Kao Weng-yuan, a move interpreted as a counter-offensive amid controversy surrounding his reappointment. Kao faces questions about his integrity after allegations surfaced that he began seeking overseas employment just three days after his reappointment on May 1, leading to doubts about his commitment to the university.

Kao has remained largely silent on the matter since the allegations emerged, only sending an email to NTHU affiliates on August 9. The university's supervisory committee met last Friday to discuss Kao's situation, but no outcome has been announced. The alumni association's statement, however, aims to rally support for Kao, praising his efforts and contributions to NTHU's academic development, internationalization, and talent cultivation.

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We hope that Kao Weng-yuan will continue to leverage his strengths on the existing foundation and lead Tsing Hua to move forward steadily, exerting greater influence on the global higher education stage.

The statement, signed by Alumni Association Chairman Chen Li-pai and honorary chairmen Hsieh Yung-fen and Tsai Chin-pu, asserts that under Kao's leadership, NTHU has achieved significant results. It expresses hope that Kao will continue to lead NTHU with his expertise, driving its steady progress and enhancing its global influence in higher education. The association pledges its full support, emphasizing pride in being part of the NTHU community.

However, NTHU distinguished professor Chou Cho-hui has raised concerns about the validity of the alumni association's statement. He argues that if the statement was not formally proposed and approved by the association's general assembly or board of directors, it may only represent the opinions of the three signatories, not the entire NTHU alumni body. Chou suggested that the alumni association might be unduly influenced by the president's office, questioning whether it truly reflects the collective sentiment of all Tsing Hua alumni.

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This statement can only represent the opinions of the three signatories, not the opinions of all Tsing Hua people.