Partnermeeting in Taiwan

Photo essay

At the end of October 2024, the Co-SFSC team visited the Taiwan hub for an academic and cultural exchange. Their visit was characterised by participation in the international SSCP conference, collaboration with institutions and exploration of sustainable agricultural practices in Taiwan.

Group meeting in Taiwan

The team also visited the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA), responsible for advancing agricultural policies, the National Taipei University, the Feng-Chia University, and two local practice partners in central Taiwan. Through in-depth interviews with the agricultural sector, researchers, and local enterprises, the team not only filmed documentaries to capture Taiwanese innovative agricultural practices but also explored the diversity of local agricultural industries, gaining deeper insights into Taiwan’s efforts and achievements in sustainable agriculture.

First day

Exchange at NTPU and the MOA

The Co-SFSC team visited the National Taipei University (NTPU) to interact with faculty and students and discuss research developments and future trends. Later, the team met with Director Lao-Dar Juang at the Department of Resource Sustainability (DRS) of the Ministry of Agriculture and learnt about Taiwan's agricultural policy. A tour of the Taipei Botanical Garden gave a great impression of Taiwan's rich biodiversity and deeply impressed the visitors. The day ended with a delicious vegetarian buffet at the well-known vegetarian restaurant ‘Fruitful Food’.

Exchange between Co-SFSC team and MOA officials

Second day

Overcoming Typhoon Challenges

Due to a typhoon, part of the itinerary was cancelled. However, the Taiwanese high-speed railway (THSR) - the fastest means of land transport in Taiwan - remained in operation, meaning that the Co-SFSC team was able to continue its journey to Taichung unaffected by the storm.

In the THSR — Kanang and Natapol in the THSR

Third day

Visiting the practice partners

In central and southern Taiwan, the Co-SFSC team visited local agricultural enterprises, “Uncle Sweet” and “Taiwan Soybean Farm.” Through interviews and hands-on activities, including making soybean pudding, they explored the stories and philosophies behind these enterprises. The visits emphasized their dedication to sustainability and innovation within Taiwan’s agricultural sector.

Exchange with "Uncle Sweet" — Exchange and group photo with "Uncle Sweet"

Sweet potato? — Aylin prepares Soybean pudding

Exchange with “Uncle Sweet” and “Taiwan Soybean Farm”Exchange with “Uncle Sweet” and “Taiwan Soybean Farm” — Exchange with "Uncle Sweet" and "Taiwan Soybean Farm"

Documentary filming in the field of “Taiwan Soybean Farm” — Documentary filming in the field of "Taiwan Soybean Farm"

The day ended with a visit to Fengchia Night Market in Taichung, where the team immersed themselves in Taiwan’s vibrant street food culture, sampling delicacies such as bubble tea and stinky tofu.