STUST actively embraces the mission of modern higher education by promoting holistic education, university social responsibility (USR), and local inclusion for sustainable development. The university has long upheld a spirit of humanistic care and technological innovation, engaging deeply with local communities and implementing diverse USR programs to fulfill its social responsibilities through concrete actions. At the 6th Global Vision USR University Social Responsibility Awards in 2025, the university once again demonstrated excellence in USR initiatives, securing a top-four national ranking and first place among private universities of science and technology with three highly influential projects.

【STUST’s USR team gathered together to celebrate the achievement of being ranked fourth in the country and first among private universities in the 6th Global Vision USR University Social Responsibility Awards in 2025. The three shortlisted projects fully demonstrate our STUST’s outstanding achievements in the field of USR and its commitment to the local community.】

Recreating the Old Street’s Splendor: Collaborating with Residents to Build a Sustainable Historic District

In the "Local Inclusion Group," STUST focused on Tainan's Shennong Street through the project "Preserving the Trade Culture of Kaitai Suburban Merchants: Collaborating with Residents to Create a Sustainable Historic Street Museum." This initiative aims to conserve the rich suburban commercial history of Yifu City’s five ports while utilizing advanced digital technologies. Through MR technology, the project digitally recreates the port's prosperity in Ching Dynasty. Additionally, the team partnered with local residents to organize a special light show, transforming Shennong Street into a "sustainable museum street" that blends history with innovation. Project leader Ms. Bai-fang Shiao highlighted that this endeavor will not only safeguard cultural heritage but also strengthen the bond between students, residents, and the university, fostering sustainable urban renewal.

【STUST's USR project "Cherishing the Trade Culture of Kaitai Suburban Merchants: Working with Residents to Create a Sustainable Old Street for Museums" was shortlisted in the "Local Inclusion Group" of the Global Vision USR University Social Responsibility Awards. The project combines MR technology to recreate the prosperous scene of Wujiaogang in the past, and works with residents to create a special light show, successfully transforming Shennong Street into a "museum sustainable old street" rich in cultural heritage and innovative charm.】

Integrating Arts and Culture: Preserving Local Heritage through Music and Multimedia

Also competing in the "Local Inclusion Group," the "Cross-Music Contest: South and West, Inclusive Art" project focuses on the local culture of Sihanoukville. Project Leader Zhi-jie Hsu explained that the initiative merges various media—music, film, and e-books—to produce creative works rich in local themes. In collaboration with the renowned theatre group "Yueyan," students developed an inclusive musical. Notably, the project partnered with Nanyang Polytechnic in Singapore to develop AR-guided tour software, bringing Sihanoukville’s unique parade culture to an international audience.

【STUST's "Cross-Music Contest: South and West, Inclusive Art" USR project was shortlisted for the "Local Inclusion Group" of the Global Vision USR University Social Responsibility Awards. The project focuses on Sihanoukville’s local culture, and through various media such as music and images, it aims to create songs, documentaries and e-books rich in local elements, and collaborate with the “Yue Yan” theatre group to co-create a musical. It also combined international exchanges and co-developed AR tour guide software with Nanyang Polytechnic, Singapore, to allow Sihanoukville’s parade culture to enter the international stage with a new look, attracting more people to recognize Sihanoukville’s cultural charm.】

Green Energy Sustainability: Fostering Cross-Disciplinary Talent for Industrial Transformation

In the "Sustainable Course Group," the "STUST Green Power Creation and Energy Saving Practice Credit Program" addresses the sustainable transformation of Taiwan’s southwest coastal aquaculture industry. This initiative integrates green power generation with intelligent farming technologies to enhance students' interdisciplinary expertise while assisting local aquaculture businesses in reducing carbon emissions. Professor You-ren Chen from the Department of Mechanical Engineering emphasized that hands-on fieldwork effectively boosts student engagement and practical skills while making meaningful contributions to Taiwan’s sustainability efforts.

【"STUST Green Power Creation and Energy Saving Practice Credit Program" was shortlisted for the "Sustainable Course Group" of the Global Vision USR University Social Responsibility Awards. This program focuses on the sustainable transformation of aquaculture in Taiwan's southwest coastal areas, combining green power creation with intelligent aquaculture technology. It is committed to cultivating students' cross-domain professional capabilities and substantially assisting local aquaculture operators in carbon reduction upgrades. Department of Mechanical Engineering Professor You-ren Chen emphasized that students can not only effectively improve their learning motivation and practical experience through field practice learning, but also contribute to Taiwan's sustainable development through practical actions.】

The Global Vision USR University Social Responsibility Awards celebrate impactful USR projects, fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration among higher education institutions. Despite fierce competition, STUST stood out, securing three nominations. President Neng-fu Huang reaffirmed the university’s commitment to "pragmatism and practicality," aiming to be a leader in technical and vocational education. By emphasizing "interdisciplinary innovation" and "sustainable development," the university's USR programs empower students with valuable hands-on experience while fostering community prosperity. The awarded projects exemplify these core values, promoting sustainable development and enriching both students and local communities. STUST remains committed to serving as a driving force for regional progress.