The Yunlin County Government convened the “115th Academic Year Countywide Principals’ Conference for Elementary and Junior High Schools” on the 20th. Magistrate Chang Li-shan stated that the county government has continued to invest in educational resources in recent years, ranging from smart technology and student support services to character education and bilingual learning. These efforts have gradually narrowed the urban-rural educational gap and provided students with learning opportunities that connect them with the international community. She expressed her hope that education will equip children with knowledge, character, and courage, enabling them to set out from their hometowns and engage confidently with the world.
This year’s conference, themed “Leading with Intelligence, Cultivating Sustainability,” focused on four key areas: AI-driven school governance, interdisciplinary teaching with generative AI, green and sustainable campuses, and fostering local development while strengthening international connections. Senior high schools and vocational schools were also invited to participate, further consolidating educational consensus across the county. During the event, 184 outstanding individuals and 43 exemplary schools and teams were recognized for their achievements.
Magistrate Chang noted that technology has rapidly entered school campuses in recent years. In the age of AI, the critical question is not whether students can ask AI to find answers, but whether they can formulate meaningful questions, verify information, and exercise sound judgment. She emphasized that while technology may continue to evolve, fundamental values and principles should never be forgotten. Therefore, while promoting AI education, the county government remains committed to strengthening character education and advancing bilingual instruction, ensuring that students develop technological literacy, strong moral values, and a global perspective.
Magistrate Chang further announced that beginning in the 115th academic year, nutritious lunches will be provided free of charge to all public elementary and junior high school students, benefiting more than 50,000 students and staff throughout the county. The county government will also promote the use of locally produced rice in schools to support healthy nutrition while strengthening Yunlin’s agricultural sector. In addition, NT$70 million will be invested to ensure that all 191 elementary and junior high schools in the county have dedicated campus safety personnel. Service hours will be increased from four hours to eight hours per day, accompanied by the deployment of professional counseling staff. Furthermore, the county government has joined hands with National Taiwan Normal University to initiate preparations for the establishment of Yunlin County National Taiwan Normal University Senior High School, creating more diverse learning opportunities for students.
Magistrate Chang pointed out that Yunlin’s mountains, coastline, agriculture, and cultural heritage serve as the best learning resources for helping children understand their hometown. The county government will continue promoting forest, marine, ecological, and local cultural education, enabling students to build confidence through a deeper connection with their land and to step onto the global stage.
Director of Education Chiu Hsiao-wen stated that this year’s principals’ conference incorporated environmental education for the first time and invited both public and private senior high and vocational schools to participate. This initiative links educational resources across all levels, from elementary and junior high schools to senior secondary education. With the support of the county government and the collective efforts of educators, education in Yunlin has advanced rapidly in recent years. Smart learning devices and various educational resources are being progressively implemented, and future development will continue to focus on AI, sustainability, internationalization, and distinctive local characteristics.
Magistrate Chang expressed her gratitude to all principals, directors, teachers, and education professionals throughout the county. She emphasized that every step forward in education requires the shared commitment of those working on the front lines. The county government will continue collaborating with schools and parents to ensure that every child is seen, supported, and empowered to succeed, allowing them to grow with confidence and security in Yunlin while looking toward the future.
Sources: Yunlin County Government
