【Article by OIC】
On April 2, Ambassador Robert Kennedy Lewis of Saint Lucia and his delegation visited National Chengchi University (NCCU) to better understand the university's academic environment and students' campus life. The NCCU representatives attending the meeting included President Li Tsai-Yen, Vice President for International Cooperation Katherine (Yi-Ning) Chen, Supervisor International Protocol Advisor Claire Taoi, and Saint Lucian international students currently enrolled at NCCU. The delegation from the Embassy of Saint Lucia included Ambassador Lewis, Mrs. Brenda Phanis-Lewis, Second Secretary Ms. Rovin Fevrier, and executive assistant to the Ambassador Adriana Hsu. Also in attendance were NCCU international students, including Brianna Tyrisha Deterville, a master's student from the College of International Affairs, and Darlene Kelian Victorine Barthelmy, a bachelor's student from the Department of Business Administration.

Ambassador Lewis assumed office in 2022 and has served in Taiwan for three years. With a Ph.D. in Mathematics Education and more than 15 years of experience teaching at high school level prior to his diplomatic service, Ambassador Lewis demonstrated extensive familiarity with the backgrounds and current circumstances of the 11 Saint Lucian students studying at NCCU. He emphasized that Taiwan’s affordable education costs and comprehensive healthcare system are two significant advantages that attract global talents. NCCU’s reputation in business studies and international relations also makes it a top choice for Saint Lucian students pursuing overseas education. Ambassador Lewis expressed hope that NCCU would share more information about its English-taught programs and scholarships, enabling more Saint Lucian students to fulfill their dream of studying in Taiwan.

During the meeting, two international students shared their experiences at NCCU.Darlene Kelian Victorine Barthelmy praised NCCU’s mentorship system for significantly aiding her academic journey and adaptation to campus life. Brianna Tyrisha Deterville highlighted NCCU’s innovative programs, such as those offered by the International College of Innovation, which integrate forward-looking perspectives and Taiwanese local experiences taught in English, contributing greatly to her academic development and deeper understanding of Taiwan. Students also discussed the challenges they face regarding course selection and daily life. Katehrine Chen, the Vice President of the OIC office, encouraged students to actively communicate with departments and faculty, emphasizing that the university’s support system is designed to help them overcome difficulties and successfully complete their studies. President Li Tsai-Yen reiterated NCCU’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity, assuring students that the university remains open to listening and making timely adjustments based on student feedback.

Ambassador Lewis noted that only 5-8% of Saint Lucia’s population hold master’s degrees, contrasting Taiwan's higher education landscape. Drawing on his personal experience, he encouraged students to cherish the resources available to them now and to give back to society in the future.

As the visit concluded, Ambassador Lewis expressed gratitude to Taiwan and NCCU for their generous academic and financial support, bringing Saint Lucia closer to realizing its dream of making higher education widely accessible. He also presented NCCU with coasters decorated with Saint Lucia's national bird, symbolizing his wishes for each Saint Lucian student to achieve dreams as vibrant and brilliant as the feathers of the colorful bird.