Distinguished academics from diverse fields play an important role in bringing Taiwan to the world, because the accumulation of knowledge and the promotion of creativity are key to Taiwan's international competitiveness, President Chen Shui-bian (
Chen made the remarks when presenting awards to seven professors, making them laureates of the National Forum (
The National Forum, established in 1997, is the highest honor given to university professors in the fields of social science, natural science, biological science and applied science.
No social science laureate was awarded this year as nominees did not meet the qualifications. The nation's social sciences are relatively less developed as there is more interest in technical fields.
The ministry's Academic Award has been given out for 49 years to encourage researchers to develop their strengths.
Noting the impact of academics on society, Chen said the government would work to boost resources for higher education.
"Knowledge is power. I know that the distinguished scholars and researchers honored here have brought Taiwan to the world due to their professionalism. They should also contribute their efforts to making Taiwan's future more sustainable," Chen said.
Advancing research and teaching levels relies on not only awards but also collaboration among government, industry and academic circles, Chen said.
Chen said that NT$50 billion (US$1.5 billion) would be spent over the next five years to help competitive universities improve.
In addition, Chen said that the government had budgeted NT$1 billion for universities to improve their quality of teaching.
"I think NT$1 billion for improvement is insufficient. I've asked the ministry to boost the budget to NT$5 billion," he said.
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