STUST held its Graduation Ceremony of the 114th Academic Year on June 7 at Sanlian Hall on campus. A total of 3,496 graduates completed their academic journey and, with the heartfelt blessings of faculty, family, and friends, now step into an era of innovation. This moment marks not only a major milestone for the graduates but also a testament to the university’s educational vision: “AI sets sail—STUST leads the way,” with the goal of cultivating sustainable AI talent across industries. The ceremony was live-streamed on the official STUST YouTube channel, allowing families and friends worldwide who could not attend in person to share in this moment of pride and celebration.

【During the Graduation Ceremony of the 114 th Academic Year, President Neng-fu Huang of STUST delivered an inspiring and forward-looking address, encouraging graduates to embrace continuous learning and seize opportunities in the age of AI. He expressed great expectations for their future development.】

President Neng-fu Huang Hosts His First Graduation Ceremony, Envisioning a New Blueprint for Talent Development in the AI Era.

This year's ceremony was especially meaningful as it marked President Neng-fu Huang’s first time officiating as university president. A pioneer in AI-powered smart agriculture and a veteran in the field of information engineering, President Huang fully understands the transformative impact AI will have across all industries. With this foresight, he has strategically positioned STUST as a “practical AI technology university,” committed to producing graduates who are adept at using AI tools to solve real-world problems. Recognized with the prestigious “K. T. Li AI Special Contribution Award,” President Huang's leadership in AI education has been widely acclaimed by both academia and industry. STUST is also one of 17 universities partnered with NVIDIA, further demonstrating the university’s outstanding positioning and achievements in AI. President Huang’s efforts have earned media recognition, and he was named an “AI Education Maker” by Global Vision Magazine, highlighting his vision and drive in promoting AI education throughout Taiwan.

In his speech, President Huang first congratulated the graduates on completing their studies and expressed sincere gratitude to their families for their unwavering support. He noted that STUST is strategically located in the heart of southern Taiwan's semiconductor “S Corridor” and benefits greatly from the government’s “Greater Southern New Silicon Valley Promotion Plan.” Located just 13 kilometers from the Southern Taiwan Science Park, STUST graduates are uniquely positioned to gain early access to leading-edge industries, including semiconductors, AI, smart manufacturing, green energy, and smart healthcare. In addition to the high-tech sector, traditional industries within the “S Corridor” are actively seeking interdisciplinary talents who can apply AI to achieve automation and transformation, greatly improving efficiency and competitiveness. Notably, in the announced on June 3, “Smart Rainforest Industry Creation Subsidy Program” under the Greater Southern New Silicon Valley initiative, STUST secured three project grants in the field of “Smart Catering,” the highest number among all participating institutions—further proof that AI has become a driving force across all sectors, sparking innovative applications and business opportunities. President Huang concluded by encouraging graduates to embrace lifelong learning, master new technologies, and boldly face the challenges of the AI era. By gaining a deep understanding of AI and leveraging its power, graduates can turn AI into their greatest ally in both their professional and personal lives.

President Huang elaborated that the “AI-enabled, literary and military” talents cultivated in Southern Taiwan are exactly the kind of leaders needed in the AI era. These graduates not only possess outstanding professional “hard skills” and essential “soft skills” such as effective communication and teamwork, but also demonstrate a capacity for continuous learning and self-improvement through hands-on projects and competitions. In today’s rapidly evolving society, they exhibit strong practical problem-solving abilities and adaptability—qualities that embody the “learning potential and combat effectiveness” highly valued in the modern workforce. To support this vision, President Huang has actively promoted Taiwan’s first “AI Practical Field AI Maker” initiative, allowing students to apply their AI knowledge in real-world contexts, develop AI application capabilities, and grow into the new- generation AI professionals demanded across all industries.

President Huang particularly drew attention to the Roman-style flags hoisted high on the campus lampposts during graduation season. These flags, fluttering in the breeze with gradient hues ranging from light blue to deep purple, are more than just part of the campus scenery—they represent the heartfelt messages STUST extends to each graduating student. The flags symbolize resilience and confidence, mirroring the professional wisdom and courage forged by students during their time at STUST. They embody rich layers of meaning, including STUST’s bold declaration in the AI era, showcased in slogans such as “AI sets sail, STUST leads the way,” “Wisdom sets sail for an innovative future,” and “AI empowers and drives innovation.” These messages highlight the tremendous potential of STUST students to harness AI for creating a better future. For graduates embarking on a new chapter, the flags also serve as a source of encouragement and strength, with inspiring mottos like “Youth sets sail, ambitions soar” and “Build dreams steadily and achieve excellence,” urging them to pursue their dreams with courage and humility. Additionally, the banners feature uplifting bilingual messages such as, “Be bold, be courageous, be your best. Be fearless, dare to excel, and become the best version of yourself,” and “Follow your passion, it will lead you to your purpose.” These concise yet powerful English affirmations transcend language barriers and inspire students to confidently step beyond borders, embrace the global stage, and chase boundless dreams.

In closing his speech, President Huang emphasized that the professional knowledge acquired over four years at STUST serves as a firm foundation and rich nourishment as graduates enter the workforce. Interactions with classmates and teamwork in classroom and campus life have provided invaluable experiences that prepare them to integrate into society. With excellent faculty, advanced facilities, and a diverse, international student body, STUST has created a learning environment that equips graduates to thrive in an ever-evolving professional landscape. President Huang assured graduates that STUST will remain a strong pillar of support. Whether alumni seek further education, professional development, or opportunities for industry- university collaboration, the university will always welcome them back with open arms, cheering them on as they continue to shine and contribute to society. President Huang reminded graduates of STUST’s motto—“Be Faithful, Righteous, and Honest”—a guiding principle from the university’s founding fathers. He expressed hope that these values would serve as a lifelong compass, encouraging graduates to face the future with accountability, resilience, and confidence, just like the many STUST alumni who have excelled across various industries and earned widespread recognition. In closing, he offered heartfelt wishes: “Be bold, be courageous, be your best! Stay fearless, dare to try, and live your best! Follow your passion, it will lead you to your purpose! Embrace AI, champion sustainability, and continuously learn to unlock your boundless potential!” President Huang also noted with a smile that the ceremony marked his six months and six days in office at STUST, and he wished all graduates great success and a bright future.

【At the graduation ceremony, Professor Zhao-tang Yu, Dean of Academic Affairs, solemnly read the degree conferment declaration, officially marking the successful completion of academic studies for the 114th graduating class and their transition into a new chapter of life. This moment not only signified academic accomplishment but also embodied the university’s commitment to the graduates’ professional competence.】

Distinguished guests gathered to offer their congratulations, and President Lai Ching-te delivered an encouraging message, urging students to boldly pursue their dreams.

The event was graced by numerous distinguished guests and filled with warmth and grandeur. Among the prominent attendees offering congratulations and words of encouragement were Da-wei Chen, Chairman of the Southern Taiwan Alumni Association; Zhi-cheng Chen, Vice President of Chi Mei Hospital; and other key figures from industry and academia. The guest list also included Wang Suzhen, Director of National Jiachi High School; Mei-zhu Wu, Internship Director of Tainan Private Salesian Senior Vocational School; Ming-lang Chen, Secretary of National Tainan University Affiliated High School; Cheng-long Lin, Chairman of the Kaohsiung Alumni Association; Gui-chin Gao, President of the Boss Lady Association; and Zong- ming Chen, General Secretary of the Tainan City Industrial and Commercial Development and Investment Promotion Association. Further notable guests included Deputy Director Jian-chiang Zheng and Shu-ya Zheng of the academic department of the Taiwan Soka Gakkai. Director Jin-fa Huang of National STUST Alumni Association Counseling, Tainan City Alumni Association Vice Director Mao-song Chen, Director Yu-lun Yang and Supervisor Chi-zhang Chen of EMBA Student Association Executive, Supervisor Shu-ching Wu of Proprietress Association, Director Zhong-ming Li of Long-jie Shie Service Office, Chairman Zong-lin Wu of Tainan STUST Retired and Resigned Staff Mutual Aid and Care Association, Executive Directors Shu-hua Wu and Yuan-dian Huang, Deputy General Manager Shiu-ying Lin and Cashier Group Leader Rong-ming Guo and many other distinguished guests witnessed this glorious moment together.

【Zhi-cheng Chen, Vice President of Chi Mei Hospital—a key partner of STUST—addressed the graduates with heartfelt words, reinforcing the strong link between academic learning and industry application.】

【Chairman Da-wei Chen of the National Alumni Association also shared his blessings and valuable experiences with the graduates, encouraging them to carry forward the spirit of STUST into the next phase of their lives.】

President Lai Ching-te sent a congratulatory video to encourage all graduates to embark on the next stage of their lives with confidence. He urged them to face challenges head-on, apply what they have learned, bravely pursue their dreams, and broaden their horizons.

【All the teachers and students of STUST singing the school anthem at the Graduation Ceremony of the 114th Academic Year】

STUST Recognized Across Sectors: A Model of Excellence in Talent Development

STUST has earned widespread acclaim not only from its student body but also from various sectors of society, thanks to its outstanding educational practices and solid reputation. Its proactive engagement and strategic vision in the field of AI have also attracted international attention. A prime example came during a public speech by CEO Jensen Huang of Nvidia in Taiwan, where STUST’s school emblem was prominently featured on the official event backdrop—highlighting the university’s leadership in AI education.！

In the “Global Vision 2025” survey of college graduates most favored by employers, STUST ranked first among all private universities nationwide. It also took the top spot among southern private science and technology universities in both categories of the “Most Popular with the Financial Industry” and the “Most Popular Interns among Corporates.”Moreover, the Cheers 2025 survey of the most popular graduates in the job market confirmed that STUST is the leading private science and technology university in southern Taiwan. Notably, according to the 2025 “University Brand Power” report by 104 Job Bank, STUST was the only university of science and technology included in the “Mass Communication” category across 18 academic groups. It also ranked first among private universities of science and technology nationwide in both categories of the “Recreation and Sports Colleges” and “Engineering Colleges.” The College of Engineering has demonstrated its excellence by successfully passing the fourth cycle of IEET engineering accreditation in 2025. Meanwhile, the School of Business continues to grow its international competitiveness—it was first accredited by AACSB International (the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) in 2017 and successfully renewed its certification in 2022, making it the only private university of science and technology in Taiwan to achieve this distinction. These accomplishments, endorsed by industry leaders, media outlets, and international accreditation bodies, stand as powerful evidence of STUST’s educational excellence and its commitment to cultivating diverse, well-rounded talent.

【Bai-yi Tsai, Student Representative and top-four graduate of the Department of International Business, shared his four-year journey with humor and sincerity, striking a chord with the audience.】

STUST extends heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 114. May each graduate uphold the school motto—"Be Faithful, Righteous, and Honest"—carry forward the guidance and expectations of teachers and leaders, and soar to great heights in the journey ahead. May you build a future that is broader and brighter, pursue your dreams wholeheartedly, and shine your light in every corner of the world.

【Firoj Mulani, a doctoral student from the College of Engineering, joyfully participated in the graduation ceremony with his family.】

【Graduates of the 114th Academic Year celebrated with cheerful group photos.】