NWU Delegation visits Taiwan’s Tamkang University for Futures Thinking seminar
A NWU delegation, comprising of 22 students from the College of Arts and Sciences, and 2 instructors, attended a Futures Thinking seminar at Tamkang University (TU) in Taiwan from March 11 to 15, 2024. TU’s collaborative program with Northwestern University ignited a transformative journey into futures thinking. Students from both institutions embarked on an immersive exploration, laying the groundwork for understanding and actively shaping sustainable futures. NWU VP for Administration Prof. Karl Lenin Benigno and Foresight Coordinator Jezreel Larry Caunca led the NWU delegation.
Dr. Deng Jian Bang, along with Dr. Shun-Jie Ji, Professor of the Department of Education and Futures Design, extended a warm welcome to all. Beyond the academic sessions, students were encouraged to immerse themselves in Tamsui’s scenic beauty and explore Tamkang University’s vibrant campus, enriching both their cultural and intellectual experiences.
Esteemed scholars and educators, among them Dr. Nur Anisah Abdullah, Managing Editor of the Journal of Futures Studies and Professor at Tamkang University’s Department of Education and Futures Design, and Dr. Deng Jian Bang, Director and Professor of the same department, imparted the fundamentals of futures studies to participants. Joining them were Futures Studies PhD candidates Shakil Ahmed and Edward Niedbalski, whose insightful contributions enriched the program.
Throughout engaging workshops and discussions, attendees explored the profound impact of collective foresight and global collaboration. Dr. Abdullah’s expertise and leadership, coupled with the diligent efforts of the Futures Studies candidates, deepened the participants’ understanding.
Reaching a major milestone, Northwestern University and Tamkang University formally committed to furthering futures thinking by signing a Memorandum of Understanding. This collaboration promotes creative research and education partnerships essential for navigating a sustainable future. This historic agreement was signed by Prof. Karl Lenin C. Benigno, Vice President for Administration at Northwestern University, and Dr. Deng Jian Bang, Director of Tamkang University’s Department of Education and Futures Design.
Participants immersed themselves further into the program, delving into practical applications of futures thinking tools like Causal Layered Analysis. This transformative process empowers students to untangle complex problems and envision multifaceted solutions, armed with the knowledge and connections to inspire change.
The process of discovery and education continues after the program. With the vision and resources of regenerative futures, participants are ready to take the lead and change the world as tomorrow’s leaders.
