Fo Guang University Launches “16+2 Multidisciplinary Learning Week” to Cultivate AI and Sustainability-Oriented Talent in Collaboration with the Computer Skills Foundation
In response to trends in educational transformation and sustainable development, Fo Guang University has launched a pilot program for the "16+2 Multidisciplinary Learning Week" this semester. This innovative teaching model will be officially implemented at the end of the term. Today (23rd), the university held a launch press conference and signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Computer Skills Foundation, marking a significant step forward in digital and sustainability education.
Fo Guang University President Chao Han-Chieh stated that the "16+2" model compresses professional coursework into the first 16 weeks of the semester. The final two weeks are dedicated to cross-disciplinary learning centered on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This approach aims to enhance students’ digital skills and sustainability literacy through practical engagement, aligning with global trends. He also expressed gratitude to the Computer Skills Foundation for its participation in curriculum planning and faculty support, which helps strengthen academia-industry collaboration and boost students’ practical experience and employability.
Secretary-General of the Computer Skills Foundation, Huang Yi-Feng, noted that this marks the foundation’s first collaboration with a university under the 16+2 model. The foundation’s long-standing focus on skill-based and certification-integrated training aligns closely with Fo Guang University’s educational goals. Moving forward, they hope to equip students with tangible skills and certifications, enhancing their cross-disciplinary practical capabilities.
Under the one-year MOU, Fo Guang University and the Computer Skills Foundation will focus on promoting professional development for faculty and expanding learning opportunities for students. Through joint provision of AI and SDGs-related lecturers and teaching materials, the partnership will support local and international computer skills activities and competitions, as well as certification exams to broaden students’ career pathways.
Vice President Lee also shared progress on the 16+2 implementation during the event. This semester, the university added 40 professional and certification courses, totaling 361 hours. AI courses accounted for 12 classes and 15,090 total teaching hours, while SDGs courses included 5 classes with 4,320 hours. These course offerings are closely aligned with future workplace trends, helping students build cross-disciplinary abilities and practical competitiveness through a balanced approach of theory and application.
Fo Guang University is undergoing proactive transformation by integrating industry resources with innovations in higher education. Through the 16+2 Multidisciplinary Learning Week system and strategic industry-academia collaboration, the university is creating a learning environment that balances theoretical knowledge and practical application. The goal is to cultivate a new generation of talent equipped with global vision, cross-disciplinary capabilities, and local action competence—setting a new paradigm in higher education.
