Since 2017, the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC) has been reshaping how Taiwan's youth see the world. Through the "Taiwan Youth Overseas Expatriate Bridging Program," the council selects the nation's most promising university students each year for an immersive summer experience abroad. So far, 748 young people have taken part in the program, returning with a deeper sense of mission and connection.
In 2026, the program will be held in seven global hubs: Chicago, Melbourne, Paris, Tokyo, Seoul, Ho Chi Minh City, and Kuala Lumpur. The selected 84 students will spend 7 days immersed in the rhythm of overseas life. The program includes visits to the overseas offices, compatriot associations, compatriot schools, as well as local institutions that play a key role in promoting Taiwan's global presence. By connecting with young compatriots and influential community leaders, participants will gain firsthand insights into the complex dynamics that shape Taiwan's global relationships.
Beyond networking, the program will also serve as a platform for cultural diplomacy. Participants, acting as goodwill ambassadors, will introduce Taiwan's rich and diverse cultural heritage to mainstream society through performances and presentations, bridging the gap between generations and cultures.
Importantly, the program goes well beyond a traditional academic or cultural exchange. For many students, it becomes a launching pad for sustained engagement in overseas community and diplomatic work. Through direct, hands-on exposure, participants return to Taiwan with a strengthened sense of mission and clarity of direction, better prepared to make meaningful contributions to Taiwan's international engagement.
