Professor Ueda from Chiba University’s Design and Culture Laboratory in Japan visited Asia University’s College of Creative Design for a series of in-depth academic and practical exchanges with Dean Tsun-Hsiung Yao, Dean of Industry–Academia Collaboration Chao-Neng Wang, Chair of the Department of Interior Design Sheng-Cheng Shih, and the project execution team.

The visit was part of Asia University’s implementation of the National Science and Technology Council’s (NSTC) “University–Local Government Cooperation for Regional Humanities Development and Cross-Disciplinary Governance” program—also known as the “Great Local Project.” Asia University is one of seven universities nationwide selected for this initiative, led by Vice President Hui-Chen Ke in collaboration with the Yunlin County Government. The project focuses on regional revitalization and evidence-based governance, applying data research and analysis to generate policy recommendations that support Yunlin’s forward-looking and sustainable development strategies.

During the symposium, Dean Yao emphasized that the value of design lies in fostering cross-departmental collaboration, particularly in allowing master’s and doctoral students to integrate practical application into their research. Dean Wang added that Asia University’s longstanding cooperation with local government has built valuable momentum, and the cross-national exchange with Chiba University brings new possibilities to the project’s execution.

Professor Ueda highlighted that sustainable local development is a long and challenging journey with no shortcuts. He stressed that only a core team with clear goals, persistence, and a willingness to deeply interpret and translate local culture can enable regional revitalization to truly take root. He noted that Asia University’s strong local engagement, combined with international collaboration, offers a unique cross-cultural and cross-border model that could bring profound impacts on Yunlin’s future development. He also praised the project’s commitment to social practice and its concrete strategies to support regional growth, underscoring the irreplaceable role of universities in society.
 

Dean Tsun-Hsiung Yao (second from right) and Professor Ueda (third from right) during a roundtable discussion with the College of Creative Design team at Asia University.

• Dean Tsun-Hsiung Yao (second from right), Professor Ueda (center), and the College of Creative Design team in a group photo.