Taiwan to train 100,000 overseas engineers in AI
Taiwan is embarking on an ambitious program to train 100,000 overseas engineers in artificial intelligence (AI) as part of its strategy to become one of the top three global leaders in AI by 2028.
Minister of Economic Affairs Kuo Jyh-huei announced on September 11 that this initiative would involve inviting 25,000 students annually from overseas over the next four years. These students, encouraged to focus on AI studies, will be joined by an equal number of Taiwanese students, resulting in a pool of 200,000 AI engineers by 2028.
Kuo emphasized that this influx of talent, coupled with the development of a supportive AI environment, would position Taiwan as a major global power in AI. To create a robust AI software environment, Kuo mentioned the need for a support base of 50 million people. He proposed linking Taiwan with Kyushu in Japan and Luzon in the Philippines to achieve a combined population of 70 to 80 million, which would help foster the necessary environment for AI development.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) also views the Philippines as a key source of talent, particularly as a counterbalance to the aging populations in Taiwan and Japan. Kuo highlighted the importance of investing in research and development to ensure that Taiwanese businesses are well-prepared to face future challenges in the rapidly evolving AI sector.
