Taiwanese students connect with Israeli scientists in first-ever international online exchange

Taiwan's Ministry of Education is fostering interest in science among young women through its "High School Girls' Science Education Tour Program." Now in its 14th year, the initiative aims to inspire more female students to pursue careers in science.

This year marked a significant milestone as Taipei First Girls High School hosted its first international online exchange. Students engaged directly with Dr. Daria Feldman and Dr. Moran Frenkel-Pinter, two accomplished female scientists from Israel. They also interacted with Dr. Hsiang-Yi Yang, an associate professor from National Tsing Hua University's Institute of Astronomy, who shared her research journey and insights.

The program, which has already visited six schools including Taipei First Girls High School, emphasizes hands-on experiments and scientific inquiry. The goal is to enhance students' scientific literacy and motivation. The ministry plans to expand the program to 10 high schools in the 114th academic year, with activities already completed in several locations across Taiwan.

Beyond online exchanges, the program invites local female scientists to share their research experiences and life stories. For instance, a session at Ilan High School featured academics from Academia Sinica and National Tsing Hua University. The ministry intends to continue this program, gradually extending its reach to schools in remote areas and outlying islands, systematically cultivating students' long-term interest and confidence in science.

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We hope that through the sharing of research results, career experiences, and life stories, we can help students understand the diverse aspects of scientific research and build confidence in pursuing scientific fields.