The talented team "To-gether(土ogether)" from National Chengchi University's International MBA (IMBA) program made a significant impact at the highly anticipated Hult Prize Global Semifinal in Mumbai. Comprising four students with diverse backgrounds—Leo Lee, Yaninee Likhitworasak, Holt Tuan, and Mickey Wongchinda—the team showcased their innovative approach to sustainable production uniform, offering a sustainable procurement option to the enterprise while improving worker comfort on the production line. They left a lasting impression at this year's Hult Prize summit.

The Hult Prize competition challenges young people to solve pressing global issues through social entrepreneurship. This year's theme was "Redesigning Fashion," focusing on the fashion industry's environmental impact. The To-gether team reached the semifinal round in Mumbai, competing against 70 registered groups from around the world. With a chance to win the ultimate prize of 1 million USD to launch their business, the Mumbai summit proved to be a rigorous and demanding battleground for young entrepreneurs. The To-gether team was aware of the tough competition they faced from all over the world such as South Korea, Australia, Nepal, Bangladesh, Japan, India, and many others.

The event commenced at Mumbai Gopal Sharma Memorial School, where the team received a warm welcome from a dedicated team of over 30 staff members who provided invaluable support throughout their journey. The opening ceremony featured inspiring speeches by industry experts, with Ms. Kirti Poonia, the founder of Relove, leaving a lasting impact on the team. Her personal journey of building a startup resonated deeply with them, emphasizing the challenges faced and the perseverance required to succeed. Ms. Poonia's words became a driving force for the team as they embarked on their own entrepreneurial path.

Ms. Carla Osnaya, the Hult Prize HR Director, further motivated the team with words of encouragement. She urged the nervous entrepreneurs to utilize every moment for practice, emphasizing that progress, rather than perfection, is the key. Her insightful words inspired the team to put their best foot forward and fueled their ambition to secure the top spot for both NCCU and their respective countries.

The journey of the To-gether team began long before the summit with meticulous preparation and research, laying the foundation for a robust and comprehensive business model. By identifying key partners, refining their proposal, and gaining a deep understanding of the market dynamics within the automobile and manufacturing industry factories, the team created a sustainable plan that considered both environmental and social aspects.

Effective product design and development played a pivotal role in the team's success. After interviewing several real production line workers, the team incorporated essential factors identified during their research. They developed two sets of prototypes, the polo shirt type and shirt type uniform that balanced sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. The prototypes displayed during the summit left impression to the judges and the peers. Many of the audiences were eager to learn more about the product and expressed deep interest in the team’s business model after the pitch.

Participating in the Hult Prize Global Semifinal provided the team with valuable networking opportunities. Engaging with teams from diverse backgrounds and countries expanded their professional network, facilitated the exchange of innovative ideas, and provided insights from industry experts. This exposure broadened their perspectives and opened doors for potential collaborations and partnerships.

One of the team members, Holt Tuan, shared his personal reflection on the transformative experience. "The Hult Prize Global Semifinal held in Mumbai taught us valuable lessons on managing and developing projects. By observing other teams' innovative use of resources and sustainable practices, we were motivated to generate our own unique solutions. The competition emphasized the significance of strategic thinking, effective communication, mentorship, market research, product development, and proficient pitching skills. Furthermore, it highlighted the need for efficient time management to attain project objectives. In general, the Hult Prize Global Semifinal acted as a stimulus for our personal growth."

"I am sincerely grateful for the guidance provided by the professor and our IMBA peers," expresses Mickey Wongchinda, the team leader of To-gether. "Seeking advice from experienced professors and peers has been invaluable in strengthening our business idea. Their mentorship and consultation have played a pivotal role in refining our concept, addressing potential challenges, and showing us the blind spots we did not see. Their expertise and industry insights have empowered us to develop a more comprehensive and viable approach, significantly increasing our project's chances of success."

Looking ahead, the students expressed their gratitude to NCCU IMBA for making this opportunity possible. They now view themselves as active contributors to a global movement of sustainable entrepreneurship. Their business plan, which focused on the creation of sustainable production uniforms, received positive feedback and recognition, further strengthening their belief in the viability of their venture. This positive response has fueled their determination to continue the business upon returning to Taiwan, with a greater resolve to make a significant impact in the future.

The highly-anticipated Taipei International Dragon Boat Championships (臺北國際龍舟錦標賽) was held at the Dajia Riverside Park (大佳河濱公園), on June 22nd, 2023. It was a beautiful sunny day with clear, vibrant blue skies, complementing the scenic atmosphere bustling with activity. Numerous teams from around the world gathered beneath their tents in anticipation of the commencement of their respective races. Among them, the IMBAders stood poised, eagerly counting down the moments until their exhilarating race. The team proudly showcased diversity, comprising both current students and alumni hailing from 14 countries.

In the months prior, the team underwent intensive training as they prepared for the exhilarating competition. Amidst the demands of their academic pursuits or career, team members consistently demonstrated discipline and exceptional sportsmanship, successfully striking a harmonious balance with bi-weekly Dragon Boat practice. Undeterred by weather conditions, dedicated team members actively attended practice sessions, recognizing the importance of refining their posture and movements. The team was trained by a renowned, professional coach and 3-time gold medal winner of the Asia Olympic Games, 何佳霖 (Ho Jia-Lin). Coach Ho consistently highlighted the importance of synchronization to ensure that not an ounce of energy was wasted. His instruction was well received as the team’s paddle movements improved with each session. This remarkable progress not only showcased the team’s unity but also served as a vivid demonstration of their commitment to excelling in the Taipei International Dragon Boat Championship.

The pursuit of victory, however, was just one aspect of the IMBAders' remarkable journey. Their focus extended far beyond the outcome of the competition as team members embraced an extraordinary sense of camaraderie. Within their collective spirit, great emphasis was placed on effective communication, collaboration, and consistency; creating an environment that nurtured and celebrated the values of great sportsmanship. Front line paddler and fourth consecutive year Dragon Boat participant, Francisco Lopez shared, “the team spirit and the sense of community is why I am still rowing. Engaging in Dragon Boat presents a valuable opportunity to forge connections with people I may not encounter in my usual day-to-day interactions. It helps us bond and nurtures lasting friendships.”

Beyond the rigorous training sessions, the team frequently convened for shared meals, nourishing not only their bodies but also strengthening the bonds forged through their shared experiences. These gatherings provided opportunities to reflect on their collective journey; celebrating triumphs and overcoming challenges together. Collaboration efforts during fundraising activities also fostered a sense of resourcefulness as the team capitalized on each other’s strengths while working towards a common goal.

As the date of the Dragon Boat competition approached, the IMBAders stood united with an unwavering dedication to the sport, and the shared determination to conquer the challenges ahead. The final day of practice entailed much preparation, insightful discussion, and enjoyment. This was a crucial day as team members shared final tips and meticulously reviewed the strategy that would guide them through the upcoming competition.

Competition day buzzed with anticipation and excitement. Following an invigorating warm-up, Captain Ozkan addressed the team and delivered a passionate speech. His words carried the weight of experience and wisdom, inspiring the team to give their absolute best in the upcoming race, while also emphasizing the importance of enjoying every exhilarating moment. As the team made their way to the platform, loud cheers erupted from their supporters. Fellow classmates, devoted alumni, cherished friends, and proud family members assembled in great numbers to support the team. The race unfolded with intensity and filled the atmosphere with much excitement!

Initiating the race with methodical paddle movements, the team gradually unleashed their power, propelling themselves forward with every stroke. Despite the strong currents, the team’s momentum surged as their pace quickened, allowing them to make headway. After precisely 4 minutes and 06 seconds, Demi Yang, co-captain and flag catcher, grabbed the flag with great precision and skillfully released it into the river. Filled with a sense of achievement, the team members erupted in a symphony of contented laughs and victorious cheers, securing a commendable third-place finish. It was indeed a moment of fulfilment for the team. First-time paddler Kritsana Wongchinda expressed his contentment with the results, stating, “I am incredibly satisfied with the results of the competition. It's a testament to our hard work and dedication as well as the support from our coaches. We gave it our all, and seeing our efforts pay-off is truly gratifying. The experience has not only strengthened our skills and resilience but has also deepened our love and appreciation for Dragon Boat. I couldn't be prouder of what we have achieved together."

To commence activities for next year's competition well in advance, an election was held to hand over the captaincy. The nominees, Suren Chultemsuren and Zac Chen each received 50% of the votes and were appointed co-captains of the IMBAders 2023-2024. Together, they will embark on a journey to forge an even stronger team. Beaming with a smile, the outgoing captain, Ozkan, expressed his overwhelming elation to have had the privilege to lead such an extraordinary team of dedicated individuals. With a sense of immense pride, he expressed gratitude towards the team and the broader school community, acknowledging the collective efforts that brought them to this moment of triumph. In his closing remarks, he stated, “This journey has taught us that when we come together and combine our strengths, we can surpass even our own expectations. The pride and satisfaction we feel are not just for ourselves but for every member who contributed to this incredible achievement. It's a true testament to the power of teamwork and the immense fulfilment it brings.” Passing on the baton to the new captains, he extended well wishes and expressed his utmost confidence in their ability to carry the team forward with much success.

The new captains dedicated themselves to the IMBAders. Their shared sentiments emphasized fostering meaningful connections within the IMBA community and the holistic benefits of engaging in Dragon Boat activities. Asserting that the experience not only nurtures physical well-being but also contributes to mental rejuvenation and much-needed respite from the intensity of academic or career obligations, Zac and Suren encouraged new candidates to join the team.

外交系「區域研究－中東國際關係」課程於6月7日邀請沙烏地阿拉伯駐臺代表艾德爾（Adel F. Althaidi）以「Saudi Arabia: Vision 2030 and Saudi-Taiwan Trade Relationship」（沙烏地阿拉伯：願景2030及沙臺貿易關係）為題發表演說。艾德爾代表為資深的外交官員，熟稔外交事務與國際政治，現為沙烏地阿拉伯商務辦事處駐臺北代表。本場演講由政大外交系和阿文系主辦，沙烏地阿拉伯商務辦事處協辦。

演講由外交系系主任盧業中開場並介紹艾德爾代表的經歷與背景，並接續由艾德爾依序介紹沙烏地阿拉伯的今昔發展、願景2030與沙臺經貿關係。首先他精簡的就沙烏地阿拉伯王國的地理位置、自18世紀以來的歷史做簡單的介紹與回顧。沙烏地阿拉伯地處西亞的阿拉伯半島上，連結歐亞非三大陸塊，經貿與戰略位置至關重要，不論在海上、空中或是陸上運輸都成了全球網絡中的核心地點。且國土面積廣闊、海岸線綿延，又擁有3000多萬公民及近70%的青壯年人口，使其於地緣政治上扮演重要角色。另外，沙烏地阿拉伯因為國土內擁有麥加（Makkah）與麥地那（Madina）兩座聖城，成為了伊斯蘭世界中「聖地的守護者」的存在。如今的沙國於1932年由紹德王室重新統一，並在這近百年的時間裡一步步融入國際秩序與世界脈動中。國際政治上，除了在石油出口與美國為首的西方國家關係密切，1945年沙國同時成為聯合國（The United Nations）與阿拉伯國家聯盟（The Arab League）的創始會員國。

艾德爾提到，更重要的是沙烏地阿拉伯的天然資源豐富，其產量與儲備量及國家石油經貿政策，不僅決定性地主導了國家經濟前景與發展，更牽動著全球的經濟與政治利益。國際層面，包含了1960年沙國與其他產油國家成立的OPEC及沙國參與並影響了20世紀中葉後之國際經貿秩序。國內層面，石油帶給了沙國財富，但單一依賴石油出口的經濟體制，亦深深地影響了政策與社會發展。自1970至2015年，沙國實施了九次五年發展計畫，但經濟上仍大量依賴石油收入，並承擔相應而來的收入困境與風險。直到2016年，沙國新上任的王儲薩爾曼親王提出「Vision：2030（願景2030）」後迎來了轉機。願景2030以「永續、繁榮與安全」為三大原則，提出「充滿活力的社會A Vibrant Society、繁榮的經濟A Thriving Economy和雄心壯志的國家An Ambitious Nation」等三大主軸，方方面面、從上而下地改變沙國。

願景2030旨在振興國家經濟、增加經濟體制的彈性、活力與多元性。從社會角度來說，沙國大量興建交通通訊基礎建設，並致力提升沙國社會的宜居性與沙國人民的幸福感。不論是在公共衛生與醫療、婦女與孩童權益、生態環境保育或是觀光服務等，都投入大量資源以提升品質。經濟層面，沙國擴大了石油經濟外的其他產業，包含科技、網路及資訊工程、金融科技與新創產業，並改善投資與經商環境、增加勞工權益與提升女性勞動率以及增加於科學技術上的教育與研究。願景2030大大的增加了非石油經濟收入與降低石油經濟於GDP中佔比，也確確實實增加了沙國的政府效能與國家實力，使得沙國在各領域皆有能力於世界舞臺上與其他國家競爭。

演講另一大主題為沙烏地阿拉伯與臺灣的雙邊關係。臺沙關係始於1946年，在過去我國的重大國家建設中，沙國提供我方高額的無息貸款興建，如國道一號中山高速公路及中沙大橋；另一方面，在沙國過往的國家建設及發展中，我國也以實際的技術知識、經驗與專業技術人員輸出沙國，提供包含交通、科技、資訊、醫療、農業、電力等領域的技術協助與指導。我國前後派駐了上萬名技術型精英前往沙國，除了幫助沙國建設外，也以友情、互惠與合作的精神落實臺沙雙邊關係。如今，我國與沙國間仍保持高度的商貿關係，包含了石化與非石化產品、工業原料與機械及高科技產業軟硬體的來往。在沙國推出願景2030年的過去這7年與未來數年，相信臺沙間之關係以及臺沙各自的企業，都能乘著這願景帶來的風，帶來更美好的前景與未來。演講最後在同學與各方專家的提問及代表耐心且詳盡的回答畫下完美句點。

【Article by College of Commerce】
National Chengchi University (NCCU) has always been a hub for cultural exchange, academic excellence, and sporting events. On May 13th, the university made history by hosting the first-ever College of Commerce Exchange Student Soccer Championship at HuanShan Sports Center. The event brought together exchange students from all over the world to compete in a friendly yet competitive soccer tournament.

The idea of the tournament was inspired by a group of soccer players who wanted to make their games more competitive. Mathieu le Borne from EM Strasbourg Business School, France; Javier Vaquer from Ramon Llull University, Spain; Nicolas Ollinger from Nova School of Business & Economics, Portugal and Manuel Alvarez Jerez from IE Business School, Spain organized the tournament. Soccer is a common sports game in Europe, the home region of most of the organizers.

The tournament was incredibly international, with 10 teams representing France, Finland, Spain, Paraguay, Germany, Taiwan, Kyrgyzstan, the UK, and others. The exchange students competed enthusiastically, showcasing their skills and playing with passion. The event was not only about soccer; it provided an opportunity for exchange students to meet and interact with each other. They shared their cultures and experiences and made new friends. It was truly a melting pot of cultures and ideas as there were more than 10 nationalities on the fields.

The tournament started in the early afternoon, with teams arriving at the HuanShan Sports Center at 12 pm. The weather was perfect for outdoor sports, the teams then proceeded to warm up before the first game. The tournament was divided into two groups of five teams each, with each team playing four games. The top two teams from each group would proceed to the semifinals and then the finals.

The games were competitive, with each team trying their best to win. The players had different styles of play, with some relying on speed and agility while others prioritized teamwork and strategy. Nevertheless, the games were exciting to watch, with the audience cheering and applauding every good play. The teams were evenly matched, with no clear favorites. Each team had their strengths and weaknesses, and it was a matter of who could exploit them better. The games were also unpredictable, with some teams staging comebacks and others conceding goals at crucial moments.

Samuel Saily from Hanken School of Economics, Finland was confident about bringing his team to victory, stating that he had been playing soccer for years. He was glad that there was such a game for exchange students to participate in and a great way to spend time with classmates and fellow exchange students outside the classroom.

The tournament was not just about soccer; it was also an opportunity for exchange students to showcase their talents and skills. It was a chance for them to represent their countries and cultures and to learn from each other. The tournament was a platform for them to build their confidence, make new friends, and have fun.

Shayne Miller, an exchange student from ICHEC Brussels Management School, Belgium, also expressed his motivation to join the event, stating that he loves competitiveness in sports. He had a lot of fun playing the game, but obviously, signing up for a competitive game, he had expectations to win and play his best to take the winning spot.

【商學院訊】
政大商學院向來以卓越的學術成就與致力國際文化交流聞名，近年來更因積極推動各項體育賽事而活躍。在多位商學院國際交換生的號召之下，政大商學院於日前在環山運動中心舉辦首屆交換生足球錦標賽，現場匯聚來自超過10個國家的同學組成的10支隊伍同場競技，帶來數場精采絕倫的比賽，各國同學們展現了運動家精神，不論輸贏皆全力以赴的享受比賽的過程，除了體育的交流，來自不同國家的同學們也有了更多機會認識不同的異國文化。

足球在歐洲已是非常普遍的全民運動，為了在臺灣也能同步享受到踢球的樂趣，來自法國EM Strasbourg Business School的Mathieu le Borne，以及來自西班牙Ramon Llull University的Javier Vaquer、IE Business School的Manuel Alvarez Jerez和葡萄牙學校Nova School of Business & Economics 的Nicolas Ollinger 有了辦錦標賽的共同想法，合力促成了這次的機會。

得益於政大商學院多元的交換生背景，本次足球錦標賽十分的國際化，總共吸引來自法國、芬蘭、西班牙、巴拉圭、德國、臺灣、吉爾吉斯斯坦、英國等共十支隊伍報名參賽，交換生們無不帶著熱情和衝勁各顯神通。宛若聯合國的組成，讓交換生們也把握難得的機會，在交流球技之餘，分享了彼此的文化經驗，也結交到志同道合的好朋友。

比賽當日天氣晴朗，各隊無不摩拳擦掌，瞄準冠軍的榮耀。比賽分為兩組，每組五支球隊，每支球隊進行四場比賽。每個小組的前兩名隊伍將進入準決賽，然後才是決賽。每支球隊都全力以赴爭取勝利，戰況一度膠著，場邊加油聲此起彼落，正所謂球是圓的，不到最後一刻永遠都不知道贏家是誰。

來自芬蘭Hanken School of Economics的Samuel Saily表示，他已經踢了很多年的足球，對於自己帶領的球隊信心滿滿，也很高興有這樣機會可以讓交換生參與交流，即便在課堂外也能與同學共度歡樂時光非常棒。不但能展現球技和才藝，更是為國家爭取榮耀的機會，同時也藉此增強信心。來自比利時的ICHEC Brussels Management School的交換生Shayne Miller表示，自己本來就熱愛體育競技，比賽時沉浸其中全力以赴，當然，既然參賽了就抱著勢在必得的決心，盡最大努力奪取冠軍。法律系碩一的Brian Hsiao對這次活動也讚不絕口，有機會和交換生互動提供了練習英語口說的機會，同時他也很享受這場比賽，儘管最後歐洲球隊贏得了壓倒性的勝利，但比賽過程中的團隊合作和溝通，讓他獲益良多。

比賽進入白熱化的階段，四支實力堅強的隊伍在準決賽和決賽中爭奪最後的冠軍寶座，為了自己、團隊也為了國家榮耀。最後，來自巴拉圭的UPTP'22隊與同樣來自巴拉圭的另一支球隊經過激烈的競爭後，贏得了最終勝利，全體隊員的喜悅全部寫在臉上，並且高喊他們終於做到了。

閉幕典禮一片歡樂氛圍，不論輸贏，所有參與選手互相祝賀比賽的成功，主辦的四位同學也感謝所有參與隊伍及商學院的大力協助，有了眾人的努力和支持，才得以順利完成，而本次的比賽已達到前所未有的大成功。本次活動僅是一個開端，希望未來商學院的交換生延續這樣的精神和活動，透過體育打破語言、文化以及國界的藩籬，讓所有人凝聚在一起。

商學院國際事務辦公室（Office of International Programs，以下簡稱OIP）於5月8日上午在本院一樓玉山國際廳舉辦112學年度第1學期出國交換學生說明會及學友計畫（Buddy Program）說明會，會中除了為即將於出國交換的學生提供了必要的資訊與行前須知外，也為下學期要協助接待姐妹校來訪之交換學生的同學說明本院Buddy Program的運作方式及提供擔任Buddy之經驗分享。

商學院於112學年度第1學期將薦送110位同學前往姐妹校進行一學期的交流，並將接待160名來自姐妹校的學生於本院進行一至二學期的交流，目前商學院已於全球142所頂尖商管學院簽署學術交流合約，商學院同學將可透過該合作協議，參與學生交換計畫、雙聯學位計畫、短期交換計畫及夏日學院計畫等。

出國交換學生說明會由OIP助教黃千容Cherry主講，詳細介紹了出國前中後需注意之事項，包含申請文件準備、住宿安排、簽證辦理、出國選課辦理、役男緩徵、抵達回報、修課標準及要求、心得繳交及學分抵免辦理等。除了相關之注意事項外，Cherry也鼓勵學生們在出國交換期間修習更多當地特有的課程，並強調了文化交流的重要性，提醒學生們要尊重和理解不同文化的差異，以建立良好的國際形象，同時推廣臺灣文化及政大商學院。

另外，OIP也邀請兩位傑出的商院國際大使（International Programs Ambassador, IPA）──財管系大二的沈庭妤Evelyn、會計系大二的李芳臻Annika，與即將出國的學生分享如何以英文介紹臺灣、政大及商學院。兩位IPA代表先以有趣的有獎徵答方式炒熱現場氣氛後，再以流利的中英文及生動的說明介紹臺灣的地理位置、景點，以及政大與商學院的特色和優勢，並提供精美簡報檔給所有與會同學，做為學生未來赴國外交流時，向外國朋友介紹自己國家和學校的重要參考指南。

出國交換學生說明會後，與會學生也都積極詢問相關問題，並獲得了專業、友善的回應及建議，學生們也紛紛表示對這次說明會感到非常滿意。OIP鼓勵學生們充分利用這個出國交換的機會，在拓展自己的國際視野及國際化能力的同時，也積極推廣臺灣文化，並相信學生將在這次的交換中能獲得難忘的回憶和成長。此外，協助學生順利度過出國前的準備階段，並持續提供學生最好的支持及幫助，也是OIP重要的任務之一。

學友計畫（Buddy Program）主旨為，本地學生在協助外籍學生適應臺灣生活時，透過與外籍學生互動的過程，增進文化交流並拓展國際視野及國際觀。Buddy Program說明會由OIP助教楊靜宜Jane主講，詳細介紹了Buddy Program的運作方式及接待注意事項，並分享了過去學生們在這個計畫中的互動和經驗。

同時，也邀請到企管系的資深學長吳鎧敬Michael上臺分享與外籍學生相處的心得和技巧，包括建立友善的互動、提供實用的生活建議和協助解決日常困難。

商學院學友計畫（Buddy Program）於2003年起實施，為全校首創，不但為外籍學生提供溫暖的接待和支援，同時也促進了本地學生與外籍學生的友誼和跨文化交流，Buddy Program每年4月和10月開放申請，歡迎並鼓勵有興趣參與計畫的學生們可積極報名參加。