Kick-off Symposium on Semiconductors in Kumamoto 2024 was held
On July 23, 2024, Kumamoto University, in collaboration with Taiwan's leading national universities in the semiconductor field (National Tsing Hua University, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, National Cheng Kung University, and National Taiwan University), hosted the "Kick-off Symposium on Semiconductors in Kumamoto, 2024."Since the decision in November 2021 by TSMC to build its first fab in Japan, located in Kumamoto, the Kumamoto prefecture has seen significant industrial growth centered on semiconductor-related companies. This development has attracted considerable attention both domestically and internationally. Kumamoto University has been dedicating its efforts to promoting education and research in semiconductors and expanding its global organizational structure.
Given this context, the symposium aimed to introduce the educational and research initiatives in the semiconductor field by Kumamoto University and Taiwan’s four major national universities, fostering close collaboration in education, research, and industry-academia-government partnerships.
In his opening remarks, President Hisao Ogawa emphasized Kumamoto University's commitment to actively collaborating with domestic and international universities and industries, as well as universities and companies in Taiwan, to nurture highly skilled professionals and engage in cutting-edge research in the semiconductor field.
Opening Remarks from President Ogawa
Outline of the Symposium 's Objectives from Executive Vice President Otani
Following the president's speech, key figures including Professor Tsai-Sheng Gau, Director of the Process Department at the College of Semiconductor Research (CoSR) at National Tsing Hua University, Associate Dean Yuan-Chieh Tseng of the International College of Semiconductor Technology (ICST) at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Associate Dean Jen-Sue Chen of the Academy of Innovative Semiconductor and Sustainable Manufacturing (AISSM) at National Cheng Kung University, Distinguished Professor Jian-Jang Huang of the Graduate Institute of Photonics and Optoelectronics (GIPO) at National Taiwan University, and Executive Vice-President Tsuyoshi Usagawa of Kumamoto University presented their respective university’s initiatives, engaging in discussions with the participants.
During the following open discussion, experiences and insights on advancing joint research, methods for industry collaboration, and promoting student internships were shared, leading to active discussion among participants. This exchange provided valuable hints for further development and collaboration.
During the following open discussion, experiences and insights on advancing joint research, methods for industry collaboration, and promoting student internships were shared, leading to active discussion among participants. This exchange provided valuable hints for further development and collaboration.
Presentation by Prof. Gau (NTHU)
Presentation by Prof. Tseng (NYCU)
Presentation by Prof. Chen (NCKU)
Presentation by Prof. Huang (NTU)
Presentation by Executive Vice President Usagawa
Following the symposium, a networking reception was held to promote informal interactions, offering participants a chance to deepen their connections.
The symposium attracted approximately 120 attendees from academia, industry, and local government.
Symposium Participants
Reception Attendees in Front of Kumamoto Castle
Reception Attendees in Front of Kumamoto Castle
With Speakers from Four National Universities in Taiwan