International Capstone Design Camp & Contest (ICDC) 2025 was Held in Kaohsiung, Taiwan
The International Capstone Design Camp & Contest (ICDC) 2025 was held from August 9 to 18, 2025, at National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology in Kaohsiung, Taiwan.ICDC is a collaborative program jointly organized by Dong-A University (Korea), National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology (Taiwan), and Kumamoto University (Japan). It aims to nurture students who can engage in international collaboration and creative manufacturing in the new era of global innovation.
A total of 60 students (20 from each country) participated, forming 10 international teams of six members, two from each country. Starting with an online kick-off meeting in May, each team exchanged ideas through social media, refined their concepts, and presented project proposals in July. With guidance from faculty members, technical staff, and mentors, they finally gathered in Taiwan in August to create their final products during the in-person camp.
This year’s theme was “Interactive Devices to Enhance and Energize a Party Event.” Despite schedule adjustments caused by a typhoon, all teams worked diligently to complete their projects within the limited timeframe. On the final day, each team delivered an English presentation and demonstration, followed by comprehensive evaluations.
The Grand Prize was awarded to Group 10 for their project “SOCIAL TAG”, a name badge-style device with LED lights that encourage conversation through color-coded signals. The creative idea successfully embodied the year’s theme by promoting communication and energizing social gatherings. The team received highly praise for its design quality, originality, and presentation skills.
The participated students shared their impressions, saying:
“It wasn’t just a program about making things; it helped me rethink my mindset, skills, and communication style. I believe this experience will greatly influence my future studies and career.”
“It was one of the top five experiences of my life: intense, inspiring, and unforgettable.”
“It was a valuable opportunity that went far beyond a typical trip or language study program.”
“It was one of the top five experiences of my life: intense, inspiring, and unforgettable.”
“It was a valuable opportunity that went far beyond a typical trip or language study program.”
The participants returned home with new perspectives, friendships that crossed borders, and unforgettable memories.
The next ICDC will be hosted by Dong-A University in Korea in 2026. In addition, 12 students from National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology will visit Kumamoto University this December to share their experiences and outcomes from this year’s camp.
International exchange and collaboration through ICDC will continue to thrive in the years ahead.