Taiwan to Launch Youth Overseas Dream Fund in 2025 to Support Global Learning Opportunities
Taipei, Taiwan – The Taiwan Ministry of Education (MOE) announced plans for an exciting new initiative aimed at encouraging young people to broaden their horizons by participating in overseas volunteering, internships, and educational programs. This initiative, which will be supported by the Youth Overseas Dream Fund, is set to begin accepting applications in 2025.
At a Cabinet news conference held Thursday, MOE Deputy Minister Yeh Ping-cheng revealed that the program aims to provide Taiwanese nationals aged 15 to 30 with the opportunity to travel abroad and gain valuable skills through diverse learning experiences. The program will cover costs for applicants, making it accessible to young people from all walks of life.
Program Details: How Taiwanese Youth Can Apply
The Youth Overseas Dream Fund is designed to assist young individuals in turning their ambitions into reality by funding their overseas learning projects. As part of the initiative, the Ministry of Education plans to select approximately 550 young people in 2025 to participate in various overseas programs.
Eligible applicants will be able to submit self-proposals, detailing where they would like to go and what they hope to achieve during their time abroad. These proposals could include a wide range of activities, from volunteering and internships to academic learning and cultural exchanges.
Deputy Minister Yeh Ping-cheng encouraged young people, regardless of their financial background, to apply, saying that the MOE would provide support and guidance from experts to help make their ideas feasible. He emphasized that the initiative is meant to inspire youth to seek opportunities for personal and professional growth beyond Taiwan.
Grants and Funding for Youth Participants
Participants in the program who are selected will be eligible for grants of up to NT$2 million (approximately US$61,426) to support their proposed projects abroad. This funding can cover the costs of travel, accommodation, and other expenses associated with the program, making it possible for young Taiwanese individuals to engage in global learning experiences without the burden of financial constraints.
In addition to the open application process for self-proposals, the MOE will also offer young people the option to apply for pre-arranged overseas projects organized by the ministry or other government agencies. These projects will include opportunities such as student tours to central government agencies in France and cultural exchanges to Indigenous villages in Canada.
Supporting Taiwan’s Future Professionals and Global Talent
According to the MOE, the Youth Overseas Dream Fund is part of a broader initiative to help Taiwanese youth develop the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. By participating in international experiences, young people will not only expand their personal and professional networks but will also bring back valuable insights and expertise to contribute to Taiwan’s growth.
At the press event, Executive Yuan spokesperson Michelle Lee shared a statement from Premier Cho Jung-tai, who emphasized that the program is part of the government’s long-term strategy to cultivate talent that can drive Taiwan’s future economic and social development.
Table: Key Details of the Youth Overseas Dream Fund Program
| Program Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Taiwanese nationals aged 15 to 30 |
| Number of Participants (2025) | Around 550 young people |
| Grant Amount | Up to NT$2 million (approx. US$61,426) per applicant |
| Program Focus | Volunteering, internships, academic programs, and cultural exchanges abroad |
| Open for Applications | Starting in 2025, details available in January 2025 |
| Major Projects | Student tours to France, cultural exchanges with Indigenous villages in Canada |
| Total Funding Allocation | NT$10 billion over the next four years |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Who can apply for the Youth Overseas Dream Fund? | Taiwanese nationals between the ages of 15 and 30 are eligible to apply for the program. |
| What kind of activities can be funded by the program? | The program funds activities such as volunteering, internships, academic programs, and cultural exchanges abroad. |
| How much funding will participants receive? | Participants can receive up to NT$2 million (approx. US$61,426) to cover travel, accommodation, and other expenses. |
| How many people will be selected for the program in 2025? | Approximately 550 young people will be selected for the program in 2025. |
| How do I apply for the program? | Interested individuals can submit a self-proposal to the MOE outlining where they wish to go and what they hope to achieve. |
