貢學院 | About

Origin

The Bo’ai Campus of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University holds a quietly treasured narrative within its history. The Zhumin Building, like a silent yet profound elder, gazes upon the passing of time, bearing witness to miracles in technological development and capturing fleeting moments of human brilliance. History is not merely a celebration of technology, but a precious vessel of culture.

“Kung Xue Yuan” (Academy of Contribution) is both a tribute to history and a voyage toward the future.

The term Kung Xue originates from the imperial examination system in ancient China, symbolizing reverence and dedication to knowledge; Kung Shi, the examinations themselves, were trials of wisdom and courage, carrying the dreams and hopes of countless individuals. The Kung Xue Yuan aims to rekindle the joy of learning for middle-aged and older adults, broadening their intellectual horizons and inspiring them to continue contributing to society.

At the Kung Xue Yuan, knowledge exchange, health practices, interdisciplinary learning, humanistic care, and social contribution all converge. After the merger, NYCU’s strength in biomedical and aging research has enriched the blueprint of the Kung Xue Yuan. Standing at its threshold, one might hear the melodies of knowledge echoing in the wind—an ode to the past, a hope for the future, and a pursuit of the eternal.

The Kung Xue Yuan team, with empathy and a vision that bridges history and future, alumni and faculty, technology and humanities, longevity and health, learning and contribution, returns the precious legacy of Taiwan’s half-century journey in semiconductor technology to the campus and society. It marks a crucial step in reshaping the trajectory of Taiwan’s aging population.

Through the integration of generative AI trained on vast volumes of semiconductor knowledge, Gemini composed a poem for the Kung Xue Yuan in the literary style of Tang dynasty poet Li Shangyin, inviting you to co-create the future of humanity through the fusion of technology and the humanities.

Purpose

This is a hopeful and pioneering initiative, born from a collaborative effort between TSMC and National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University.

Seasoned experts, rich in both knowledge and cutting-edge experience, enjoy the freedom of retirement and the pleasures of life. Yet, might they occasionally feel a spark—the desire to give back to society and pass on their hard-earned wisdom?

At the same time, university students—stepping into a world of new ideas and endless possibilities—may long for the guidance of elders, whose insights could help them move forward with greater clarity and confidence.

The Kung Xue Yuan credit courses begin with liberal arts education at their core, inviting retired professionals to return to campus and engage deeply with professors and students. These wise contributors share their experiences, exchange ideas, and even take part in the learning process—sharpening their own tools while recognizing the potential of the next generation.

Liberal arts professors, in turn, serve not only as educators but also as bridges between generations, helping to cultivate a new model of intergenerational learning.

Here, in this unique environment, the spirit of generational exchange grows quietly but powerfully—strengthening the next generation to carry the torch and contribute even more meaningfully to humanity.

We invite you to be a part of this shared vision:
Creating hope for the future, and carrying the dreams of tomorrow.