MOE to launch Youth Overseas Dream Fund program in 2025

2024/11/25

The Ministry of Education is set to launch the Youth Overseas Dream Fund program in January 2025 as part of plans to drive innovation and growth of various industries through boosting creativity among the youth and expanding their exchanges with the international community.
 
According to the MOE, the program will be allocated a total of NT$10 billion (US$307 million) over four years and target those aged 15 to 30. It is divided into three categories, the first of which is called the dream workshop and encourages young people to propose plans by themselves, the ministry said, adding that after review and approval, the MOE will provide specialized resources to help realize applicants’ dreams.
 
For the soaring overseas category, the ministry will cooperate with both governmental and nongovernmental organizations to provide opportunities including internships in international foundations and think tanks and trainings aimed at starting businesses. The ministry provided examples such as learning cooking in Italy and studying animal conservation at a Japanese zoo.
 
The final category is an annual flagship plan proposed by governmental bodies, the MOE said, adding that the 2025 plan, at the suggestion of the Ministry of Environment, will focus on sustainability. Under the plan, accepted applicants will have the opportunity to visit and participate in the affairs of international environmental sustainability organizations.
 
The MOE said all applications will be reviewed and approved by a professional committee. The ministry expects to help at least 200 youths for the dream workshop category, more than 350 for the soaring overseas category and approximately 60 for the flagship plan in 2025, it added.
 
After the MOE’s briefing, Premier Cho Jung-tai said Nov. 21 that the program aligns with the National Project of Hope proposed by President Lai Ching-te. He appointed Minister without Portfolio Shih Che to guide the coordination of related authorities and said the program will be funded by the annual official budget and the National Development Fund to help the youth gain expertise and knowledge overseas. 


Source: Taiwan Today (https://taiwantoday.tw/index.php)