The Birth of a New Life

From incubation to birth, the idea The Taipei School of Economics and Political Science (TSE) has beenaround for at least 12 years, more than 4,300 days. This journey almost represents a story of “turning the impossible into possible” and also heralds the start of a new life.

 

(1) Fabian Society and LSE, Taiwan Research Institute and TSE

 

In June 1996, I went to Moscow for the second time to visit former Soviet President Gorbachev. During the conversation, Gorbachev told me that since Taiwan had had a developed economy and established a democracy,in the future,”It should be able to make contributions to the world history.” In March 2008, in thespecial publication for the 20th anniversary celebrating establishment of the Taiwan Research Fund, I wrote: “Looking at the current situation and historical trends, the east is rising day by day. Although China has grown rapidly, due to its regime type, it is difficult for China to establish such a School like LSE. Taiwan’s political and economic environment has advantages in this regard. The Taiwan Research Fund and the new generation have a special “revolutionary camaraderie”, and both have a long-term relationship. If the Taiwan Research Fund can seize this opportunity, cherish the human capital that can represent the entire generation, and combine these valuable assets to achieve a dream together, just like the Fabian Society and the LSE model, to organize Taiwan School of Political Science and Economics (TSE), isn’t this a dream that can be accomplished by joint efforts? “Starting from 1 million, can the Taiwan Research Fund, which has gone through 20 years of ups and downs, achieve this dream? Without money, campus, buildings, simply based on a sense of historical mission, a kind of national dignity, and an eternal pursuit of truth, it constitutes the biggest challenge in the future to establish the Taiwan School of Political Science and Economics, as a world-class school. It’s not only my personal “dream.” It should be a “dream” shared by many people, and a “dream” that everyone needs to work together.” In March 2013, in the commemorative film for the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Taiwan Research Fund, I emphasized that this is a “dream” that requires a “cross-generation” joint effort.

 

Founded in 1884, the Fabian Society is the most famous ancient “think tank” in the world and the oldest socialist society in the British history. It’s meant to the formulate ideological principles of socialism to helpsocial reconstruction. From a historical perspective, the Fabian Society is almost the spokesperson of a progressive, moderate, and reasonable social democratcy concept. In more than 130 years of history, the Fabian Society has left a rich legacy to the United Kingdom and the world: in politics, the Fabian Society assisted the formation of the Labor Party and trained many political leaders to lead the United Kingdom; academically, the Fabian Society founded The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), which has bred many great thinkers who have influenced the world and history.

 

The initial donation of LSE was only £70,000. The school had only a few classrooms, no campus, no magnificent buildings, and no huge funds. After more than 100 years of hard work, however, LSE has become an important school in the field of humanities and social sciences after Oxford and CambridgeUniversities. Liberalism, conservatism, and socialism have been the center stage of the development of political and economic thought since the 20th century, and the key figures of these three thoughts, including Hayek, Karl Popper, Michael Oakeshott, Harold Laski, Lord Beveridge, and Anthony Giddens, have all been core members at LSE. This amazing development has surpassed the original dream of the creators of LSE. LSE itself is a moving story of “turning the impossible into possible”.

In March 2018, in the article “New Journey,” part of the special issue of the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the Taiwan Research Fund , “The Sower”, I wrote: “When the Fabian Society began to emerge, the main founder members were only about 30 years old. In the past 30 years, the members of the different generations associated with the Taiwan Research Fund have obtained academic influence. The connection between the Taiwan Research Fund and international academic institutions has been activated. Compared to the legacy of LSE the Fabian Society left for mankind, it is the gravest challenge to Taiwan Research Fund whether it can create the Taiwan School of Political Science and Economics (TSE) for EastAsia, for the world, and for Taiwan’s history. More critically, can we create such a school that is comparable to the LSE and can be a shining example in both the East and the West. The most serious issue facing the Taiwan Research Fund is its new journey to “turn the impossible into possible”. Beginning in 2018, after 10 years of brewing in Taiwan, now we have taken concrete actions to establish TSE and this has become the goal of the Taiwan Research Institute’s new journey.

(2) Birth

It took roughly two years for the TSE to develop from “dream” to “reality.” If we count from the establishment of the preparation commission to contract signing with National Tsinghua University, it took only about one year. In this process, TSE not only demonstrates “speed” but also “quality”; and TSE’s “speed” and “quality” are owing to TSE’s two great blessings: the combination of funding and talents. These two great blessings made TSE a brand-new initiative in the history of higher education in our country.

(1) Two major elements

Funding and talents are the two major challenges to TSE. In the past, TSE could only be a “dream” in conversations. ” Beginning in the spring of 2018, these two elements have come to fruition to develop in parallel, intertwine deeply and embed with each other to become the TSE.

Roughly speaking, starting from the spring of 2018, I have met with Linchen hai, the founder of PaojarGroup, the donor of the TSE Funding and we have talked for a long time. In March 2019, he agreed in principle that he would donate 3 billion for the TSE. In July of the same year, he firmly told me that he wouldsupport TSE with 3 billion TWD and he would definitely honor his promise even if he had any health issues. He also allowed me to publicly announce his support. Founder Lin’s firm attitude prompted the promotion of TSE to enter the stage of the “preparatory committee”.

 

At the same time when I talked to founder of Lin, I also started consulting other people’s opinion. From May 2019 to the first meeting of the TSE Preparatory Committee in August of the same year, I consulted nine former Ministers of Education during four administrations (Lee Tenghui, Chen Shuibian, Ma Ying-jeou, and Tsai Ing-wen), including Yang Chaoxiang, Zeng Zhilang, Huang Rongcun, Du Zhengsheng, Zheng Ruicheng, Wu Qingji, Jiang Weining, Wu Sihua, and Ye Junrong. I have also asked Liu Zhaoxuan and Tang Fei, two former premiers, and five former and current presidents of National Taiwan University, Sun Zhen, Chen Weizhao, Li Sichun, Yang Panchi, and Guan Zhongmin. Not only that, I also asked many principals, professors, and academics for help. In the process, two devoted the most efforts: Academician Yun-han Chu and Professor Shan Ji whom I knew through my previous “Reviews of Taiwan’s Medicare System.”

 

Premier Liu Zhaoxuan agreed with TSE’s thinking on “the world after 2030”, but reminded “it should not be too close to 2049”, otherwise everything would be too politicized. He suggested that cooperation with Academia Sinica be considered, including the TIGP of the Academia Sinica. Most ministers pointed to National Taiwan University. This is a natural and logical thing. However, Minister Ye Junrong, who is a professor at National Taiwan University mentioned: “For In terms of the cooperation between TSE and National Taiwan University, in terms of the past record of National Taiwan University and the internal structure of the University, there will be “beauty and sadness”. Basically, it is not optimistic.” Its former principal Yang Panchi said: “In the process of creating the TSE. The human factor is very important, especially the principal… If the TSE adopts the TIGP model of the Academia Sinica and the National Taiwan University Cancer Hospital model, it should be feasible. It should be relatively easy if both the Ministry of Education and the principal firmly support the proposal. Within two years, you can even begin admitting students.” Wu Sihua, who was the president of the National Chengchi University, and the minister of education also said: “If the principal supports the TSE concept, it is estimated that the administrative process will take about half a year. It will take about three months within the Ministry. If everything goes well, within two years, you can begin admitting students.” Minister Zheng Ruicheng believes that “as long as the partneruniversity has a sincere willingness and the president is positive and supportive, there should be no problems with the internal process of the university. As long as the Ministry of Education does not increase its burden, there will be no obstacles.” Minister Du Zhengsheng also said: “The Ministry of Education is based on the two principles of university autonomy and internationalization. As long as a certain university is willing to accept TSE, it can become one of them as a college without difficulty.” He mentioned that I was like”an old man, aspiring to go a thousand miles.” Minister Zeng Zhilang believed that TSE had a vision and hoped that TSE could become “the TSE of the world”, and he said, “I am willing to do my part for a collective journey.” Principal Sun Zhen said: “This is a brave and wise ambition. People of his age (80s) dare not think about it, but it is worth a try.” Minister Jiang Weining also said that if TSE has the opportunity, “He is willing to participate as a volunteer,” and said, “If the funds are to be available for sure and the direction of the “College within University” model is also determined, an organization similar to the “Preparatory Advisory Committee” should be established. More than 11 people can draft an agenda and start to promote TSE preparations.” When I informed the two ministers Huang Rongcun and Wu Qingji that TSE’s donation had been confirmed, and preparations were about to start, and they were invited to participate in the preparations, they all “happily agreed.” Four ministers participated in a preparatory committee as members at the same time, and later became a precedent for a foundation board director at the same time.

 

From academician Yunhan Chu to Professor Shan Ji, from the interaction and excitement with many ministers, principals and professors, from the process of incubation to birth, step by step, we are more aware of what TSE should adhere to. Dual mission:

 

Conceptually, TSE should self-encourage itself by playing the role that LSE played in the 20th century after the 1930s. Practically speaking, TSE should self-encourage itself to become the “integration” and “leading” role played by the “Kennedy School” of Harvard University in Taiwan and even in Asia.

 

(2) Preparation

Academician Yunh-an Chu first proposed the original concept of Taipei School of Political Science and Economics in March 2019. By May, this original concept was revised for three times. When the promotion of TSE has become the concrete agenda, Professor Shan Ji transformed Academician Chu’s original TSE concept into a TSE action plan, which also became the basis for discussion by the TSE Preparatory Committee.

 

The establishment of TSE has gone through three stages of preparation, deliberation and establishment.The TSE Preparatory Committee held its first preparatory meeting on August 14, 2019. To October 24, 2019, about two months, five preparatory meetings were held. There were only 8 preparatory members, including Yunhan Chu, Shan Ji, and Zeng. Zhi Lang, Huang Rongcun, Wu Qingji, Jiang Weining, Linchen Hai (he did not participate in the preparatory meeting, but participated in the donor meeting) and me. Five major resolutions were passed by the Preparatory Committee:

First: In order to effectively promote the establishment of the Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics, the Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics Foundation (hereinafter referred to as TSEF) should be formally established as soon as possible.

 

Second: It was decided to invite representatives from the four schools of National Taiwan University, Academia Sinica, and Taiwan United University System (Yangming, Tsinghua, Jiaotong University, and the Central University) to exchange opinions and enhance mutual understanding of TSE.

 

Third: On September 27, 2019, the third preparatory meeting held a discussion with the representatives of the 4 universities of the National Taiwan University System.

 

Fourth: On October 8, 2019, the fourth preparatory meeting held a discussion with National Taiwan University.

Fifth: The 5th preparatory meeting on October 24, 2019 passed the “Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics Foundation Donation Charter”; confirmed the “Conceptual Plan for the Establishment of the Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics (TSE)”, as the establishment of TSE invited all schools to propose the basis of a specific plan.

 

Sixth: For universities that are willing to cooperate, hopefully, before December 31, 2019, the “Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics Concept Document” discussed and approved by the Academic Council (this process is proposed by Minister Jiang Weining, and for the preparation Accepted by the Committee) and served to TSEF.

 

When I addressed the first preparatory meeting, I first stood up and bowed deeply to the participants, and said:I have visited successive ministers of education, many executive deans, many current and outgoing university presidents and well-known scholars, etc., asked them for help and received support on the concept, feasibility and development vision of the establishment of TSE. At this time, the concept of TSE also received the clear commitment and support from the founder of Linchen Hai, and it was able to enter the specific preparatory stage. This is an important moment in the development history of TSE. Thank you all for attending the first preparatory meeting of TSE. This is a rare moment. Thank you all. The preparatory meeting started at 3:30 that day, and the preparatory meeting lasted for about 3 hours. In addition to the evening dinner, it didn’t end until 8 o’clock. During the whole process, the discussions among the committee members were very enthusiastic and serious. It can be described as a key step in the preparation of TSE.

 

The third meeting of the TSE Preparatory Committee is also the first time that the Preparatory Committee has a discussion with the universities that may cooperate. The participants are 4 universities in the National Taiwan University System, including Yangming, Tsinghua, Chiaotung, and Central, with 2 people from each school. All headed by the principal or vice principal personally, a total of 8 people participated. From the discussion to the dinner, the atmosphere was good for 4 hours before and after the meeting. At the beginning of the meeting, as the convener of the preparatory committee, I stood up and bowed deeply to the attending representatives of the 4 schools and thanked them for organizing this historic work of TSE. Value and support.

 

At this meeting, several consensuses were reached, including:

First: The representatives of the four schools of the “National Taiwan University System” all stated that they were not only optimistic about the establishment of TSE, but also expressed positive opinions (the two sides have room for “complementary advantages”).

 

Second: The Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics Foundation (TSEF) should be established as soon as possible in accordance with the law. Only in this way can there be a “window” and “foundation” for formal dialogue with the “National Taiwan University System”

 

Third: After the establishment of TSEF, the text will be given to each school to explain the TSE conception plan, and interested schools are invited to propose a concept book (or plan book) for each school to organize TSE within the agreed time.

 

Fourth: In the early stage of TSE, the university department is not considered, and the main targets are formaster and doctoral students.

 

Fifth: TSE should be included in the university’s “organizational rules” (organizational rules), so it can only be hosted by one university.

 

In the process of interaction, what was special and unforgettable was Guo Xusong, President of Yangming University. During the conversation, a question suddenly popped up: “Mr. Huang, how can you ensure that your promises are fulfilled? How can we trust you ?” This question immediately cooled the atmosphere. I calmly responded, “Thank you, President Guo, for this big question. Maybe every participant has this question in mind. Up to now, I can only say that. , Our preparatory committee members, including the four ministers, have been walking with me until now because they believe in my character and pursuit of ideas; I also believe in the character and commitment of founder Linchen. This is our reality, and I can answer it. If you don’t believe me, I have nothing to day, but we did rely on these two beliefs to push TSE to a situation where several famous schools will actively participate.” This narrative seems to touch the hearts of the participants and dispel their doubts.

 

The fourth meeting of the TSE Preparatory Committee is also the second time that the Preparatory Committee had a discussion with a university that may cooperate. The participants are Vice President Luo and Dean Ding of National Taiwan University. Prior to this, we had exchanged views with President Guan Zhongmin and Vice President Luo Qinghua on TSE matters. Compared with the previous speeches, NTUrepresentatives were more humble and prepared. Basically, National Taiwan University hopes that the preparation of TSE at National Taiwan University will be achieved step by step, from small to large, in a stable manner. National Taiwan University also proposed a road map for the establishment. That is, first, we establish the Taipei School of Political Science and Economics program in the International College that National Taiwan University. After that, the Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics can develop other two to three programs, as long as it has the ability to establish an independent program.

 

After the School is well-established, it can be formally independent from the international college and became a formal college. Specifically, National Taiwan University aims to complete the establishment of the International College in 2021 and incorporate the Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics as a program of the international college. The Taipei School of Political Science and Economics is expected to be listed in 2023; after completing 3 courses After the establishment of Cheng, the establishment of an independent hospital at National Taiwan University will be officially completed in about 2025. (In addition, before the Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics officially became an independent college of National Taiwan University, the director of the Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics, which is affiliated to the International College, can still be called the “dean.” Its related practices can be compared with the “Advanced Research in the National Taiwan University Academy of Social Sciences.” The method of “court” in the “court” of “court”.)

 

(3) Review

 

The preparatory phase of TSE lasted about two months; the deliberation phase lasted about three months.In accordance with the resolution of the TSE preparatory meeting, after the 5th meeting of the Preparatory Committee on October 24, 2019, the Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics Foundation Donor Meeting was held on the same day, and the donation charter was adopted to confirm the list of directors of the first term: including Huang Huangxiong, Lin Jiahong, Yunhan Chu, Shan Ji, Zeng Zhilang, Huang Rongcun, Wu Qingji, Jiang Weining, Liao Yingzhi, a total of 9; then on the same day, the Taipei School of Political Science and Economics Foundation preparatory meeting was held and Huang Huangxiong was elected as the first chairman of the foundation.

 

Seven days after the establishment of the Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics Foundation Board of Directors, that is, October 31, 2019, formally submitted an application to the Ministry of Education in the name of the TSEF Preparatory Office to apply for the establishment of a foundation. Half a month later, that is, on November 14, 2019, the Ministry of Education approved the establishment of the Taiwan Education Society (3) No. 108060196 letter. On November 21, 2019, TSEF applied to the Taipei District Court for the registration of legal person establishment, and on November 29, 2019, it received the Taipei District Court’s legal person registration certificate.

 

When TSEF applied to the Ministry of Education for the establishment of a foundation, and before obtaining permission, in the name of the preparatory committee, on November 5, 2019, in accordance with the resolution of the preparatory meeting, TSEF formally sent a letter to National Taiwan University, Tsinghua University, Jiaotong University, Five presidents of Central University and Yangming University were invited to participate in the preparation of Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics.

 

In the meantime, the president of Yangming University and the president of Jiaotong University wrote to TSEF in early and mid-November, stating that “the major organizational reforms of the merger of the two universities are being promoted.” “Under consideration of the overall situation and many considerations, we sincerely recommend Tsinghua University or Central University to apply”. President Liao Junzhi of the Academia Sinica also wrote to the TSEF Preparatory Committee in December: “Tsinghua University is the only university that has nurtured three Nobel Prize winners. Its core educational philosophy, abundant academic energy and innovative school development tradition It is enough to shoulder the mission of “Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics”.” “Academia Sinica has long-term close cooperation with Tsinghua University in terms of talent cultivation and knowledge innovation. I hope to promote the development of “Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics” in the future and work together to become a world-class academic institution.”

NTU’s two vice presidents invited CEO Chen Dehua to meet with Academician Yunhan Chu to explain the reasons for not participating in the establishment of TSE; Tsinghua University’s “Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics Concept Paper” in 2019 received on December 25, 2019; Central University’s “Concept for the Establishment of Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics” was received on December 30, 2019.

One of the most important procedures for the establishment of TSE, the review meeting of partner schools, will be held on the third floor of the National Taiwan University Alumni Hall on February 10, 2020. Tsinghua and the central government are personally led by the principals Hochen Hong and Zhou Jingyang. The secretary, the dean of the dean, the dean of research and development, the dean, etc.) participated in the meeting. There were 7 people from National Tsinghua University and 8 people from the National Central University, all of whom were extremely serious and sincere. In the morning, Tsinghua will play first, and in the afternoon it will be the center’s turn. Each session lasts about two hours.

 

Participating board members compared the briefings of the two schools. Jiang Weining made a vivid metaphor: “Tsinghua focuses on seeing the forest, and the central government focuses on seeing the trees.” An ideal plan should be “seeing the forest and seeing the trees.” The ministers quickly reached a consensus: sponsored by Tsinghua and co-organized by the central government. This consensus can be said to be “successful,” and it is also a “satisfactory result.” Afterwards, after contacting the principals of the two schools, they all accepted in principle. Several ministers stated that the establishment of TSE can be said to have been 90% completed. This review meeting also resolved:

 

(1) The consensus on the selection of partner schools:

1. All the directors of the foundation highly affirmed the content of the concept book and briefing presented by the second school. I would also like to thank the two principals and the team they led for their active investment and support for this project.
2. National Tsinghua University’s core school governance, international connections and reputation evaluation, and the academic achievements of National Central University in sustainable development. The foundation of international cooperation will all be beneficial to the establishment and development of Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics. Based on the consideration of the integration advantages, the establishment of the Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics decided to adopt a mutual cooperation model, which is hosted by National Tsinghua University and co-organized by National Central University.
3. The National Central University’s participation in the co-organization model can adopt separate research centers or academic programs, or send representatives to participate in the “Academic Affairs Development and Planning Committee”, but it must not affect the operation rights and responsibilities of National Tsinghua University as the main body. The basic principles will be confirmed by the foundation through communication with National Tsinghua University, and the content and details of the joint venture will be discussed and confirmed by National Tsinghua University and National Central University.

(2) Attached resolutions:

1. The Foudnation is scheduled to invite National Tsinghua University to discuss the follow-up implementation (including the promotion schedule) of the resolutions of this meeting at 11:00 in the morning of February 13th (Thursday).
2. The “Academic Affairs Development and Planning Committee” is an important core of the promotion of this plan. It is responsible for reviewing the reform of the college, the annual budget, and the selection of the dean. Its composition is agreed upon by National Tsinghua University and the Foundation.
3. In order to avoid troubles caused by the promotion of academic affairs in the future, National Tsinghua University is invited to discuss the possibility of not setting up academic affairs meetings.
4. In the name of Taipei School of Political Science and Economics, priority should be given to establishing a base in Taipei City. National Tsinghua University is requested to propose a new plan for the reconstruction of Yuehan Hall, and the Foundation will fully assist in the implementation.
5. The school’s cooperation in the number of teachers is a condition set in the original plan. Tsinghua University is requested to make a specific commitment to this.
6. It is expected that after completing the negotiation on the specific cooperation content with Tsinghua University within one month,…calling on the Minister of Education for support.

 

(4) Establish

From the selection of the partner school to the formal contract with the partner school, it took about three months for TSEF.

In accordance with the requirements of the “Subsidiary Resolution” of the review meeting on February 10, 2020, I hope that TSEF and National Tsing Hua University can complete the negotiation on the content of cooperation within “one month.” One meeting will be completed on March 19, 2020, 6 days longer than the scheduled “within one month”, and the fourth meeting will be completed. These 4 meetings involved three major topics:

First: TSE’s future organization and operation

Second: TSE’s future funding needs

Third: TSE Future Space Planning

As TSEF stated in the “call for proposal” that it would provide 3 billion funds for TSE’s perpetual operation; and a certain percentage of the annual interest income of the 3 billion fund (originally set at 100 million per year), TSE will also be provided for its regular operations. The two guarantees of TSEF represent a new mode of cooperation between the two parties in running schools. The purpose is that once TSE is established, it can ensure the autonomy and independence of TSE in terms of “finance, personnel, and administration”, and ensure that TSE can have more flexibility. International competition is also the basic spirit of “school-in-school” and “school-centered”. This goal is understood and pursued by both TSEF and National Tsinghua University. Nevertheless, since this is a precedent in the history of higher education in our country, the two sides will inevitably have a period of soul-searching for mutual cooperation.

Professor Shan Ji was unable to participate in the review meeting on February 10 due to his going abroad. After he returned to China, I asked him to draft the most important “cooperation agreement for the establishment of Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics.” The three of us (including the CEO) On the morning of February 27, extensive discussions were held on the draft of the “contract” drafted by Professor Shan. Later, the CEO left beforehand. We both continued to amend the text one by one. After the text was revised, the structure of the “draft” was slightly modified. The adjustment cost 4 hours before and after, and it has been revised 6 times.

According to the spirit of the “concept plan”, the draft of this “contract” requires specific and detailed regulations. However, on March 5th, TSEF and National Tsinghua University met for the second time and made a major adjustment. Both parties agreed: “Contract “Should be principles and general provisions, while “plans” should be detailed and specific. Academician Yunh-an Chusaid: “According to the consensus of the second meeting between TSEF and National Tsinghua University, the cooperation between the two parties is based on the “contract” and the “plan” as a supplement; the “contract” is a principle and general rule; The “picture book” is detailed and specific; the two should be coordinated and consistent. It should be proposed by National Taiwan University. It should also have a “contrast table” that lists the same and different as the “conception plan” and the “conception book”. The changes and adjustments are subject to review by both parties and approved by the TSEF board of directors.” Minister Huang Rongcun also said: “In the business world, the “contract” is generally detailed and specific; but in the academic world, the “contract” is usually a principle. For specific and detailed ones, there is an attachment “plan”. Take the case of cooperation between National Tsing Hua University and TSEF as an example, the “contract” should be the main one, and the attachment is the “plan”; In the plan book, if you need a “contrast table”, you can attach it to the back of the plan book. In this way, there are three levels, the first level is the “contract” (main); the second level is the “plan” Picture book” (attachment); the third level is “Comparison Table” (the “Attached Table” attached to the “Plan Book”).”

As a result of such communication, the third meeting of the two parties on March 12th, through the “Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics Foundation and National Tsing Hua University Cooperation Agreement for the establishment of Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics” ( Referred to as the “Contract”), this is a major breakthrough. The full text contains only 8 articles:

1. In order to cultivate global and public affairs leaders with Asia as the focus, to innovate cutting-edge knowledge and theories in the humanities and social sciences, and to promote the sustainable development of the world, the Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics Foundation (hereinafter referred to as Party A) Cooperate with National Tsing Hua University (hereinafter referred to as Party B) to establish Taipei College of Political Science and Economics on Party B. In order to strengthen the long-term cooperative relationship between the two parties and implement the purpose of the establishment of the Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics, this contract is specified.
2. Party B shall refer to the establishment plan of the Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics, and propose an establishment plan, which shall be approved by the school affairs meeting and approved by Party A as the basis for the operation of the Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics. Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics should start enrolling students in the 110th academic year.
3. Party A is responsible for raising NT$3 billion and using its fruits to assist the Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics in developing software and hardware requirements.
4. Party B shall submit work results report and budget and final accounts to Party A every year.
5. The principal of Party B shall be appointed as the director of Party A to facilitate cooperation between the two parties.
6. The effective period of this contract is from the date of signing to July 31, Republic of China 124. The two parties can negotiate a new long-term cooperation contract five years before the contract expires.
7. The establishment plan of Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics stipulated in Article 2 of this contract is a part of this contract. If future changes are required, in addition to completing Party B’s internal procedures, it also needs to be reviewed by the Academic Affairs Development and Planning Committee of Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics. Approved and approved by Party A.
8. If there is a dispute in this contract, both parties agree that the Taipei District Court shall be the court of first instance.

March 19 was the fourth meeting between the two parties and the last meeting in the draft. I got up at about 3:30 in the morning and read carefully for the second time the “Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics Establishment “Planning book”, this “planning book” includes:

(1) The content of the “concept book” originally proposed by National Taiwan University to TSEF (“A”)

(2) The contents of the “Concept Plan” originally issued by TSEF to 5 universities (“B”)

(3) The content of consensus reached by TSEF and National Tsing Hua University in the third meeting (“C”)

Based on the “A” structure, the “Plan Book” integrates the contents of “A”, “B” and “C” and combines them organically. It also keeps the school’s major concerns (especially the 85% allocation ratio and the “C” “Yuehan Hall” distribution ratio) can be said to be very creative and attentive, taking into account the concept and reality, and can create a win-win “plan book”.

Due to the hard work of the National National Taiwan University’s “Plan Book”, the fourth meeting started at 2 o’clock in the afternoon and went on smoothly. In less than two hours, the “contract” passed by the third meeting will be in line with this meeting. The “plan book” attached to the supplier has been revised, which is a rare achievement. We originally reserved time for the evening meeting, but it ended early. Both parties were satisfied with the result of the meeting. I also turned from the original worrying situation to a cheerful one. In the evening, the board of directors had a dinner and invited the president, vice principals and chief secretaries of Tsing Hua University. Participating, because the meeting went smoothly beyond expectations and the atmosphere was very high, I toasted the principal and others and wished the National Tsing Hua University a smooth meeting.

On the morning of March 24, our group of 4 people, including founder Linchen Hai, President Hochen, Chief Executive Chen and I, went to the Ministry of Education to meet with the current Minister Pan Wenzhong. The meeting time was about an hour. Minister Pan showed sincerity. Demonstrates his mastery of higher education innovations such as TSE affairs. The full name of the written materials prepared by Tsinghua University is “Higher Education Innovation Plan-Taipei Schoolof Political Science and Economics.”

On the afternoon of April 7, the National Tsing Hua University Administration Meeting passed the TSE establishment proposal. Vice-President Dai Nianhua first called me and told me that “TSE case passed”; then the principal sent me a text message: “After one hour of discussion, the case passed”; Principal Hochen simply talked to me over the phone after the school affairs meeting was over. Explain the process of the meeting. The approval of the National Tsing Hua University Conference represents TSE’s embarking on a truly new journey. According to the consensus of the TSEF and the Qing Dynasty, the principal and I can jointly select the first TSE Dean and the convener of the Academic Affairs Development and Planning Committee. After passing the TSE case at the National Tsing Hua University on April 7th, the first thing we two did was to hire Academician Yun-han Chu to convene the conference on April 9th ​​with his approval.

On the afternoon of May 8, before the inauguration of the second President Tsai Ing-wen and the resignation of the Chief Cabinet of the Executive Yuan, the signing ceremony of TSEF and Tsinghua University to establish the Taipei College of Political Science and Economics was held at the Art Salon at the Taipei Mayor’s Residence. Minister Pan Wenzhong witnessed the signing ceremony of President Hochen Hong and Chairman Huang Huangxiong in person. After this signing ceremony, our country’s higher education began a new chapter.

Looking back at the TSEF application and the process of TSE from deliberation to establishment to birth, I would like to thank two people in particular: one is TSEF CEO Chen Dehua, and the other is Tsinghua University President Hochen Hong.

Chief Executive Chen started from the grassroots level in the Ministry of Education. He has been recommended by several ministers and directors through the Director of Higher Education, and deputy ministers. Due to his background and experience, TSEF’s approval was exceptional and smooth. After he agreed to serve as CEO in October last year (2019), he repeatedly estimated: “The most successful universities that may cooperate can pass the school affairs meeting process before the end of June next year (2020), so that TSE can proceed smoothly. Enrollment can begin in the fall of the following year (2021) and officially start the school”; he also reminded: “The application for TSE should be confirmed by the Ministry of Education before May 20 next year (2020), and there must be a meeting hosted by the Minister of Education. If there are more documents such as “memorandum” or “confirmation letter”, it will be more effective. In terms of the subsequent development of TSE, CEO Chen’s “reminders” and “estimates” are quite pragmatic and realistic.

 

Before the review meeting on February 10, 2020, Principal Hochen and I met only once. In mid-October 2019, Principal Hochen and the two deputy principals requested a meeting with me for the first time. He explained to me that on the campus of National Tsing Hua University, he is promoting the policy of “academic-based” and intends to change the current “three-level review” to “two-level review.” The Dean talked with the relevant professors of the two colleges and got support. He said that National Tsinghua University holds four school affairs meetings a year (twice each semester). If TSE develops smoothly, it is estimated that it can be passed in the school affairs meeting of the first semester (the first half of next year), and the fastest may even be 4 next year. In a month, in terms of the subsequent development of TSE, as expected, TSE passed the school affairs meeting on April 7, 2020, which shows that President Hochen is quite capable of execution. Not only that, during the four meetings between TSEF and National Tsinghua University, I also witnessed the perseverance and striving of this principal who can pull things out.

(3) Signing

On the day of the signing ceremony, May 8th, the weather was terrific, and I said with a happy and solemn mood: Today’s signing time can be said to be the Taipei School of Political Science and Economics moment, representing a story that turns impossible into possible.

More than one hundred years ago, the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), with the support of the human and financial resources of the Fabian Society, gradually became stronger. From the 1950s to the 1980s, LSE became the source of three major global ideas: Socialism, Liberalism and Conservatism. Just like Oxford University and Cambridge University, it has also become a world-renowned institution.

The story of the Fabian Society and LSE has captured my attention and inspired me. Facing the new situation of the 21st century, the West-centric world for more than 300 years has been gradually changed, from quantitative to qualitative.It is therefore my dream to establish an academic arena for leading the world and historical thoughts for Taiwan, Asia and mankind.

“Let TSE become the LSE after 2030” is an undertaking worthy of all generations. This undertaking can never be achieved by chance, but requires practice, especially the combination of talents and funds. For the past two years, I have came across two fortunes and two blessings that allowed this dream to have a chance to take a crucial step:

First, last July, Linchen Hai, the founder of Baojia Group, firmly stated to me that he would honor his promise to donate 3 billion TWD for TSE.

Second, I have received the support from10 former Ministers of Education from the four administrations of Lee Teng-hui, Chen Shui-bian, Ma Ying-jeou, and Tsai Ing-wen, and the current Minister Pan Wenzhong.

Owing to these two blessings, the signing ceremony of TSE is able to be held today. I would like to especially thank Zeng Zhilang, Huang Rongcun, Wu Qingji, and Jiang Weining, four former education ministers, for being on the Board as volunteers, and I would like to thank Academician Chu Yun-han for his dedication to planning the TSE. At the same time, I would like to point out in particular that the Chairman Lin for using a personal trust to donate funds alone. He not only declined politely the chairmanship of the foundation, but also asked me to be the chairman instead and actively invited candidates for Board members. His son, Lin Jiahong, agreed to be a Board member only owing to earnest requests from the advice of several Board members who used to be ministers. Chairman Lin said, “Well, I think my son will probably respect my decision.”

Along the way, the idea of TSE has always been accompanied by many doubts. Even before signing the contract, my old friends still asked me in confusion: Is TSE possible? Where are the talents? So much money is needed, and it takes even longer to get it done. Do you have time? Can it be seen? …so on and so forth. We have come to today’s signing scene under this series of doubtful and “impossible” question marks. It’s all boiled down to this story about “turning the impossible into possible”.

This story also represents the birth of a new life. In the past, TSE surpassed many “impossibles” and became “possible”; on this journey towards the future, there will still be many challenges and many “impossibles” ahead. I am very happy that at this moment, I can walk with National Tsinghua University, which has produced many talents and nurtured Nobel Prize winners. I hope that we can jointly write down a story of “turning the impossible into possible” and let the birth of TSE during this epidemic warm people’s hearts and become one of the most beautiful humanistic landscapes in Taiwan.