For me, this banquet felt like a graduation ceremony from my journey in this project. That afternoon, a light drizzle fell as I rode along the familiar roads from the university to Fuxing. Though exhausted after a long day of classes, I found myself unable to sleep. Instead, I gazed out the window, letting my mind wander through past memories of traveling up these winding mountain roads. Every curve, every turn, every moment of anticipation from previous journeys replayed vividly in my mind.
Before reaching the bumpiest stretch, the van came to a stop, and I followed the group as we stepped out. Still feeling lightheaded from the ride, I was suddenly awakened by a familiar, energetic voice. Jia-Yuan greeted everyone at the entrance, enthusiastically directing us to our seats, instantly filling the atmosphere with warmth and excitement. “Hearing her before seeing her” perfectly describes how her lively presence brought the gathering to life.
As I entered the restaurant, I saw Ruo-Jia and Yu-Qin, whom I hadn’t met in a while. They were as full of energy as ever, standing in stark contrast to the cold, drizzly weather outside. Their cheerful laughter and warm greetings not only lifted the spirits of the teachers and local partners but also set the tone for the evening—one filled with camaraderie and genuine connection.
After signing in, I took my seat at Table Six, flanked by Researcher Huang Yuan-Yan and Shun-Bo, the owner of You-Shun Bamboo Industry. Huang, with his calm and steady demeanor, felt like the anchor of our table. He and I chatted with the workers, easing the initial awkwardness and making the conversation flow naturally. At first, the workers seemed reserved, but everything changed the moment Kai-Shu arrived. From the instant he joined us, our table was never silent again, filled instead with waves of laughter and conversation.
Kai-Shu was the embodiment of warmth and charisma—lively, humorous, and effortlessly engaging, yet also deeply considerate. He made sure everyone at the table felt included, and even took it upon himself to ensure we all ate well, acting as both the entertainment director and the disciplinarian of the group. While sharing his hilarious past experiences, he also made sure each of us enjoyed the meal, encouraging everyone to help themselves to more food.
What struck me the most was his repeated mention of his childhood memories at Yisheng Elementary School. He recounted how National Central University had once come to the mountains to support their school, opening his eyes to possibilities beyond the forests he grew up in. He mentioned this story not just once, but three times throughout the evening. Perhaps he exaggerated some details for dramatic effect, but as I listened to his animated storytelling, playfully bouncing off the other workers’ remarks, I was completely drawn in. There was something captivating about their effortless humor and sincerity.
Midway through the banquet, teachers and partners shared their thoughts. Everyone expressed deep appreciation for the connections they had built through this project, and I realized that this was one of the things I loved most about being here. As Bo-Gei, the director from Luofu High School, shared, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” This quote perfectly captured the heart of the USR project—it is only through the collective efforts of many that we have reached this point, and only by continuing to walk together can we move forward.
As the night drew to a close, everyone raised their glasses in an early toast to the new year, celebrating not just past accomplishments but also the promise of future collaborations. It was a heartwarming moment, filled with gratitude and anticipation for what lay ahead.
On the way back, I finally fell asleep in the van. It all felt like a dream—fast-paced yet incredibly beautiful. Every scene from the evening, every piece of laughter and conversation, seemed to blend into a vivid memory that I knew I would cherish forever.
I will never forget the winding mountain roads, the vibrant and laughter-filled team, the innocent and curious children, the passionate teachers, and the fascinating workers who made this experience so special. More than anything, I hope to carry this passion and energy forward, allowing it to bloom in the chapters of my life yet to come.
Text by Tsai,Nien-Chen
Editing by Li,Ruo-Jia
Photo by Li,Ruo-Jia
In the afternoon, our group boarded a van and set off for the appreciation banquet. As the event began, everyone enjoyed warm bowls of Hakka savory tangyuan and braised pork with preserved mustard greens while taking the opportunity to connect with one another. Suddenly, a powerful voice broke through the air from the front of the room, and the You-Shun team instinctively joined in. Their voices intertwined like a secret melody, resonating through the space, while we listened in quiet admiration.
Outside, the cold wind howled, but it could not dampen the warmth and energy filling the restaurant. Lively discussions buzzed around the tables, and soon, a few guests took up the microphone to share heartfelt words. Former Changxing Elementary School principal Mei-Zhen expressed her gratitude to Professor Bo-Xun for helping resolve the school’s water supply issues. Professor Zeng reflected on how the solar panels, weather station, and microgrid they had helped install had proven invaluable during power outages. Director Bo-Gei from Luofu High School sincerely thanked National Central University (NCU) for its unwavering dedication to promoting Fuxing’s cultural heritage, instilling a deep sense of reassurance—”With you here, we have nothing to fear.”
Huang, a teacher from Youyou Xiayun Farm, warmly welcomed educators to continue bringing students to the mountains to learn, hoping to reshape misconceptions about rural life. Teacher Cai echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that coming to the mountains was not just about providing support but also about learning from the experience. He expressed hope that future collaborations would further empower local educators to realize their passion for teaching.
Beyond tangible contributions, the evening was filled with a deep sense of camaraderie. Yisheng Village Chief Xiao-Zhen shared how, on cold days, team members would exchange warm clothing—a simple yet touching gesture that left a lasting impression. Assistants Yu-Qin, Ruo-Jia, and Jia-Yuan initially found their work challenging, especially since traveling to the mountains was difficult for those prone to motion sickness. However, the care and support within the team, despite having started as strangers, created a profound bond that kept them returning year after year.
A-Shan from You-Shun Bamboo Industry reflected on how, while the older generation had guided the way, they would not have made it this far without NCU’s support. He also brought exciting news: “The Forestry Bureau’s project has been approved, and construction on the site will begin next year.” His announcement was met with enthusiastic applause and cheers. Looking toward the future, Teacher Xiu-Ling from Luofu High School eagerly asked, “Will the project continue next year?” Principal Xiao-Shu San nodded with certainty and replied, “Yes, we will continue!” The room erupted into even louder applause and celebration.
As the banquet drew to a close, each guest received a bamboo lunch box. Professor Bo-Xun explained that these boxes were crafted from bamboo harvested by the You-Shun team. They collected ten kilograms of bamboo, ground it into powder, and combined it with recycled plastic from household appliances, using a simple interlocking mechanism to assemble them. Not only did this reduce the carbon footprint, but it also gave discarded bamboo and plastic a second life.
Looking ahead, I firmly believe that we will continue to deepen our connections, working together to create even greater and more meaningful outcomes.
Text by Chang,Tzu-Yi
Editing by Li,Ruo-Jia
Photo by Li,Ruo-Jia
This year, the National Central University (NCU) USR Project held its year-end appreciation banquet at a nostalgic Hakka-style restaurant. Nestled in the mountains, this venue not only embodies Hakka culture but also serves as a meeting point where Atayal, Minnan, and Hakka traditions intertwine. It was the perfect place to bring together the many individuals who had contributed to this project—village chiefs, school principals, directors from the mountain regions, as well as professors and students from NCU. The evening was filled with warmth and gratitude, deepening my understanding of the USR Project’s significance for both Fuxing District and NCU.
Every achievement of the USR Project is built upon the efforts and dedication of countless individuals. NCU has not only worked closely with schools in Fuxing District, such as Luofu High School, Yisheng Elementary School, and Sanguang Elementary School, but has also launched various initiatives to revitalize education in the mountains. This project is more than an education initiative—it is about building cultural and emotional connections.
For me, this appreciation banquet was more than just a gathering; it was a reflection of the USR Project’s spirit. Over the past five years, NCU faculty and students have demonstrated the power of companionship through their actions. The laughter, shared stories, and heartfelt gratitude at the banquet reinforced my understanding of the core values of the USR Project—it is not just about providing technology and resources, but about a genuine commitment to growing alongside local communities.
Through the NCU mbhoyaw “Fuxing” USR Project, we have had the privilege of giving back to the children of Fuxing. This is more than a social responsibility—it is a mission of educational continuity. Watching the children explore knowledge through play and engage in hands-on learning with joy, I truly felt the transformative power of education. It not only enriches lives but also bridges the gap between urban and rural areas.
With the support of the USR Project, Luofu High School, despite being established only three years ago, has already undergone remarkable changes. Professor Zhong from the Department of Civil Engineering assisted in landslide prevention, ensuring a safer environment around the school. Professor Cai from the Department of Mechanical Engineering redesigned traditional looms, enhancing weaving efficiency while promoting and preserving Atayal craftsmanship. Even more inspiring, the team collaborated with You-Shun Bamboo Industry to recycle discarded bamboo and plastic from household appliances, creating eco-friendly bamboo-plastic boxes. They emphasized, “We are not suppliers; we are partners.” This statement perfectly captures the essence of the USR Project—not merely providing resources but truly coexisting and thriving with the community.
Today, Yisheng Elementary School is gradually transforming into a school full of hope, thanks to the USR Project. With the support of multiple organizations, the school has introduced advanced digital learning tools, giving students a window to the world beyond the mountains. These changes are not just about technological upgrades but about sustaining hope for the future. Yisheng’s principal once remarked, “Without NCU, no one would even know where Yisheng Elementary School is.” As the school continues to improve its facilities and teaching environment, I feel not just gratitude but also a deep sense of anticipation for what lies ahead.
During the banquet, the principal of Sanguang Elementary School also shared their thoughts: “NCU has always been the strongest pillar of support for children in the mountains.” This statement reaffirmed the impact of the USR Project—not only has it transformed learning environments, but it has also instilled a deep sense of pride and purpose in the NCU community. Looking ahead, the project will expand its initiatives to Sanguang Elementary School, and I eagerly anticipate new opportunities for change and growth.
Although this project is primarily led by the College of Engineering, as a Business Administration student, I have had the chance to collaborate with talented individuals from various disciplines. Through this experience, I have come to appreciate the true value of interdisciplinary collaboration.
Within this team, everyone is a partner, supporting each other and working toward a shared goal. No matter how difficult the journey, we always find strength in unity. As Director Bo-Gei from Luofu High School shared, “When Professor Cai told me, ‘Don’t worry, we’ve got this!’ I felt a surge of confidence.” This statement is more than just a promise to the community—it is a testament to the deep bond within the NCU family.
I take immense pride in being part of NCU and this meaningful project. Moving forward, I hope to continue contributing, fostering lasting partnerships, and creating more opportunities for meaningful change. I want more people to see the hidden corners of society, where every culture and life deserves recognition and respect.
I also look forward to seeing more students join this initiative, ensuring that the power of education and social progress continues to grow in these communities.
Written by Sun, Yi-Hsin
Edited by Li, Ruo-Chia
Photos by Sun, Yi-Hsin
