Being part of a prestigious event like the Hult Prize at Danang University of Technology (DUT) was an exciting and humbling experience. The Hult Prize, known globally as the "Nobel Prize for Students," challenges young minds to create viable, impactful startups. In 2021, the challenge aimed at building food enterprises that could transform supply chains, create jobs, and improve the lives of 10 million people by 2030.

It all began when I received an invitation from Huyen Tran, Vice Director of the Hult Prize at DUT. I was honored to be invited as both a Mentor for the participating teams and a Judge for the final round. This opportunity allowed me to share my experience in entrepreneurship and startup development while supporting and assessing student innovators.

Key Details of the Event

The Semi-final and Mentoring Day were scheduled for January 10, 2021. In the morning, 24 registered teams would present their ideas, and only six would advance to the final round. In the afternoon, I was tasked with mentoring these six teams, providing feedback to refine their concepts and improve their pitching skills. The mentoring sessions were thoughtfully structured, with 20 minutes allocated to each team.

The Final Round was set for January 17, 2021, where the top teams would present their well-developed projects to a panel of judges. The session was meticulously organized, and the judging criteria were comprehensive, focusing on the transformative nature of the idea, long-term impact, traction potential, scalability, and team dynamics. Each team had six minutes to pitch, followed by a four-minute Q&A session.

Mentoring and Evaluation Process

During Mentoring Day, I was impressed by the passion and ingenuity of the student teams. The Hult Prize at DUT highlighted a crucial aspect of the university’s entrepreneurial culture: students excelled in technical skills but needed guidance on business strategies, economics, and soft skills, including English. My role was to help them align their technical innovations with market viability, a critical component of successful startups.

The judging process was equally structured and thought-provoking. The criteria for evaluation ensured that the winning idea had potential beyond just a pitch—it needed to be transformative, scalable, and impactful. The scoring guidelines were based on five key elements: Idea (10 points), Impact (5 points), Traction (5 points), Wow Factor (3 points), and Team Spirit (2 points). As judges, we had to combine qualitative assessments with personal experience to determine the winning team.

Highlights of the Event

The Grand Finale was held in Hall F at the University of Science and Technology. The excitement in the air was palpable as seven teams delivered their polished pitches, showcasing their creativity and dedication to solving pressing global food challenges. The process of deliberating and selecting the best team was intense but fulfilling. It was clear that the students put immense effort into developing their business models, aiming to make a tangible difference.

Reflections and Gratitude

Participating in the Hult Prize at DUT as a Mentor and Judge was not only a rewarding experience but also a reminder of the incredible potential young minds possess when given a platform to innovate. The hard work of Huyen Tran and the entire organizing team made this event seamless and impactful. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute and for the warm hospitality extended to me.

The Hult Prize continues to inspire students worldwide, and I am honored to be part of its mission at Danang University of Technology. It’s heartening to see a new generation of entrepreneurs committed to making a positive impact on our world.

Published on Jan 18, 2021 

Venue: DUT, Danang

December 6, 2020, marks a memorable day in my experience as a judge for the Hult Prize On Campus at the University of Foreign Languages – University of Da Nang (UFLS), Vietnam. This event was the culmination of more than two months of hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm from students, organizers, and mentors.

The Beginning of a Journey

The Hult Prize On Campus at UFLS officially launched in September 2020, as part of a global initiative to inspire young people to create social enterprises that address the world’s most pressing challenges. This year’s theme was “Food for Good,” challenging students to develop sustainable and impactful solutions related to food.

From the very start, the program received enthusiastic participation from students. Over 40 students from various departments formed more than 12 project teams. Through two rounds of judging and intense mentoring, four outstanding teams emerged as finalists, ready to pitch their business ideas at the final event.

An Invitation to Judge

It was an honor to receive the invitation to be part of the judging panel for the final round. The Hult Prize program organizers made sure I had all the necessary materials to prepare, including information about the competition’s criteria and background on the theme. The excitement was building up as the final event drew near.

The Final Round

The final competition took place on December 6, 2020, at Café Trung Nguyên Legend in Da Nang. Due to the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the organizers had to make adjustments to ensure the safety of everyone involved. While the event was not as widely attended as initially planned, it still maintained an atmosphere full of energy and hope.

The top four teams presented their innovative ideas to a panel of five judges. Despite the challenges, the teams demonstrated incredible creativity and passion, which was inspiring to witness. The event was filled with excitement, intense competition, and emotions as each team passionately pitched their ideas.

A Winning Idea

In the end, the Jackfruit Team claimed the top spot with their innovative idea: a food product made from crickets, designed to provide a sustainable food source, especially in times of natural disasters like storms and floods. Their project stood out not only for its creativity but also for its potential to address real community challenges. The team earned the opportunity to advance to the Hult Prize Southeast Asia round, moving one step closer to competing for the global prize of $1 million.

Reflecting on the Experience

Being part of this event was a rewarding experience. It was inspiring to see so much potential and passion in the students, and it was an honor to contribute to their journey. The organizers, mentors, and students made this event a resounding success, despite the challenging circumstances.

I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Hult Prize On Campus at UFLS, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to the organizing committee for their invitation and warm hospitality. Their dedication to building a supportive startup ecosystem for young people is truly commendable.

The memories from this experience will stay with me for a long time, and I look forward to seeing the amazing impact these young innovators will continue to make.

Published on Dec 10, 2020 

Venue: Trung Nguyen Cafe & Co-working Space, Danang

The Hult Prize is a transformative competition that invites students from around the world to harness the power of social entrepreneurship. This year, the Hult Prize On Campus UFLS, hosted at the Danang University of Foreign Language Studies, promises an engaging and enlightening series of events designed to inspire the next generation of innovators.

Workshop: "How to Start a Startup Business from Scratch"

On November 30th, 2019, I had the privilege of delivering a workshop titled "How to Start a Startup Business from Scratch". This free event was tailored for university students across Danang who are brimming with impactful ideas and the ambition to turn those ideas into actionable projects. The goal was to equip attendees with essential knowledge and strategies needed to embark on their entrepreneurial journeys.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Structuring a Startup Model from Scratch:

   • Emphasizing the foundational steps in developing a solid startup business model, from identifying a problem to creating a solution that can generate social impact.

2. Evaluating and Researching Startup Ideas:

   • Techniques for researching and refining ideas to ensure their viability and sustainability.

   • Tips on understanding market dynamics and gathering insights to strengthen a project.

3. Perfecting the Pitch:

   • A comprehensive guide on delivering compelling pitches, highlighting essential elements that judges look for, such as clarity, innovation, impact, and scalability.

These discussions were designed to prepare participants for the Hult Prize challenge by blending theory with practical applications, ensuring they left with a clear roadmap for their entrepreneurial endeavors.

Final Hult Prize On Campus UFLS Competition

Scheduled for December 29th, 2019, the final competition will feature a selection of teams who have been working tirelessly on their projects. I am honored to serve as a judge for this exciting event, evaluating innovative business concepts and providing feedback that can propel these young entrepreneurs to greater heights. The winning team will have the unique opportunity to advance to the Hult Prize Southeast Asia Regional Finals, competing for global recognition and support.

Supporting Our Future Changemakers

It has been a fulfilling journey collaborating with the Hult Prize team and seeing the passion of young minds ready to make a difference. To promote and prepare for this initiative, I have shared the event details widely among students and encouraged participation. From coordinating meetings to finalize details to sharing insights on building impactful projects, every step has been meaningful.

I also dedicated time to crafting a tailored presentation, ensuring it aligns with the 2020 Hult Prize challenge theme and pitching guidelines. Seeing students grow in their entrepreneurial pursuits and knowing that some may continue their journey beyond the competition is incredibly rewarding.

Join Us!

If you’re inspired by the mission of the Hult Prize and want to be part of a global movement for change, check out the links provided for more information. Let’s work together to empower the next generation of social entrepreneurs and turn ideas into impact!

Published on Jan, 2020 

Venue: Golden Bay Hotel, Danang

On a drizzly yet inspiring Saturday morning, November 30th, 2019, I had the privilege of being a mentor and speaker at the Hult Prize On Campus UFLS Danang 2020 workshop. Despite the weather challenges in Danang, the event was a testament to the unwavering determination and passion of the young, aspiring entrepreneurs who gathered at The Books Library & Coffee.

The workshop, themed "How to Start a Startup Business from Scratch", was designed to ignite entrepreneurial aspirations among university students and equip them with actionable insights to turn their ideas into impactful projects for the prestigious Hult Prize competition.

Sharing the Stage with Inspirational Leaders

It was an honor to share the stage with two incredible speakers whose journeys were nothing short of inspiring:

✅ Đào Thị Huệ - Co-founder of Liberzy.com and a top-performing student, who shared her entrepreneurial experiences and practical lessons.

✅ Huỳnh Thị Minh Trang - Lecturer at the University of Foreign Languages, Danang, and a Master of International Education from Birmingham City University, UK, who brought a unique academic and international perspective to the discussion.

As for my contribution, I focused on delivering a comprehensive framework to help students navigate the complex process of building a startup from scratch. Drawing from my experiences as the Founder of Zest Tours & Travels and Primo Global Consultancy Services, I shared practical strategies, step-by-step guidance, and the importance of resilience in the entrepreneurial journey.

A Platform for Growth and Innovation

The workshop wasn't just a lecture—it was an interactive exchange of ideas. The energy in the room was palpable as attendees engaged with the speakers, asked thoughtful questions, and shared their visions. I was particularly impressed by the students' readiness to take on challenges and their enthusiasm for creating solutions with the potential for global impact.

A Heartfelt Thanks to the Supporters

Events like these are only possible with the support of a dedicated community and sponsors. A big thank you to:

✨ CLOUD MART and Young Startup Club, for partnering with the event.

✨ Vua Giày Sneaker Đà Nẵng and Highlands Coffee, for their generous sponsorship.

✨ Alpha Academy, for agreeing to mentor participating teams throughout the Hult Prize program.

Why the Hult Prize Matters

The Hult Prize is more than a competition; it’s a movement. It challenges students to dream big, act boldly, and develop solutions that address global challenges. With a $1,000,000 grand prize on the line, it provides the resources and recognition to turn ideas into reality.

To any student reading this: If you have an idea that you believe can make a difference, seize this opportunity. Surround yourself with a passionate team, put your plan into action, and take the leap into the entrepreneurial world.

My Takeaway as a Mentor

Being part of this workshop was a deeply rewarding experience. Witnessing the spark of innovation in young minds and contributing to their growth was both humbling and inspiring. It reaffirmed my belief that with the right guidance and determination, anyone can transform their vision into a thriving startup.

📌 Registration Link: Sign up for Hult Prize here

📅 Deadline: December 20, 2019

📞 Contact: 0868327630 (Ms. Huong)

🌐 Follow on Facebook: Hult Prize in Danang

✉️ Email: Hultprize2020.ufls@gmail.com

It was a privilege to be part of this journey, and I look forward to seeing the remarkable ideas these students bring to life. Here’s to dreaming big, daring to act, and shaping a better future! 🚀

Published on Dec 04, 2019

Venue: 12 Cao Thắng, Thanh Bình, Hải Châu, Đà Nẵng 550000, Vietnam

Graduation is a special moment that marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. On June 2, 2019, I had the honor of attending the Global MBA (GMBA) graduation ceremony at National Taiwan University (NTU). It was a proud moment not only for us graduates but also for the professors, parents, and peers who supported us throughout this journey. 🎊

The event was held at NTU’s College of Management, where the 12th batch of GMBA graduates gathered to celebrate this milestone. For me, this ceremony symbolized the fulfillment of my academic and personal goals. I joined the program seeking personal growth, networking opportunities, and career expansion. Standing there with my classmates, I realized how much we had achieved together. 💡✨

📅 A Day to Remember

The day started with warmth and excitement as graduates and guests were welcomed at the reception area. 🌸 Each of us received flowers, program lists, and thoughtful GMBA-branded souvenirs, including pens and washi tapes as keepsakes. It was wonderful to see my peers, many of whom had customized their graduation caps to reflect their unique journeys. 🎭🎓

Before the formal program began, we lined up for the final march, sharing brief chats, last-minute selfies 🤳, and plenty of laughter 😄. The GMBA Ohana spirit was alive as we helped each other adjust our gowns and caps, ensuring we all looked our best. 💙👨‍🎓👩‍🎓

🎶 The Ceremony 🎤

As we entered the auditorium, music played 🎶, and we were greeted by friends, family, and faculty. The program opened with greetings in multiple languages 🌏, showcasing the diversity of the GMBA community. Hearing greetings in Hindi, Vietnamese, Taiwanese, German, French, and many more languages made me feel proud to be part of such a vibrant and inclusive program. ❤️

Our hosts, Kai Shang from Taiwan 🇹🇼 and Valentina Foykar from Austria 🇦🇹, presented a beautiful video montage 🎥 of special moments from our GMBA journey. It was a nostalgic and emotional walk down memory lane, reminding us of the challenges, growth, and friendships we had built along the way. 💞

💡 Inspiring Messages

• Dean Andy Guo 🎓 gave an inspiring speech, motivating us to take on new challenges. 💪

• Vincent Shih, Assistant General Counsel at Microsoft 💼, shared his insights on entrepreneurship, business, and life. His advice was a powerful reminder of why I pursued this program. 🚀

• Program Director Chialin Chen 👏 gave a heartfelt message, reflecting on how much we had grown throughout the program.

• GMBA Student Council President Tina Lai 💖 delivered an emotional speech, reminding us of the meaning of Ohana – family 🏡. Quoting the famous line from Lilo & Stitch, she said: “Ohana means family, and family means no one gets left behind.” It was a moment that touched us all. 💕

🏆 Celebrating Achievements

One by one, we walked across the stage, our tassels turned by professors, and diplomas awarded with pride. 🎓🏅 It was a moment of triumph and accomplishment that I will cherish forever.

🌍 Reflections on the Journey

The GMBA program at NTU is more than just academics 📚. It’s a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and experiences that transforms you in ways you never expect. For me, this journey was about more than coursework—it was about:
✔️ Building friendships 🤝 with people from around the world.
✔️ Learning from different perspectives 💡 and industries.
✔️ Growing both personally and professionally 📈.

As I stood with my classmates, tossing our caps 🎓 into the air, I felt immense gratitude for this journey. 💖

A special thanks to Quynh Nga (Ashley) 📸 for capturing these cherished moments and witnessing my presentation. Your presence made this milestone even more meaningful. 💕

🚀 Looking Ahead

Graduation is not just an end, but a celebration of everything we’ve accomplished and the limitless possibilities ahead.

I carry the lessons and memories from NTU GMBA with me, knowing they will guide me in my next chapter. 🎯

To my professors, peers, and the GMBA Office—thank you for making this experience extraordinary! 🙏

Here’s to the bonds we’ve built, the knowledge we’ve gained, and the future we are creating together! 🌟

🔥 Thank you, NTU GMBA, for an incredible journey! 🎓✨💙

#NTUGMBA #Graduation #Achievement #GlobalMBA #NewBeginnings 🚀

Published on Jun 24, 2019

Venue: National Taiwan University, Taipei

Completing my Global MBA (GMBA) at National Taiwan University (NTU) has been an incredible journey, filled with learning, challenges, and achievements. One of the most memorable milestones of this journey was the presentation of my thesis, "An IT Services Startup for Small and Medium Scale Enterprises in Southeast Asia - PokaYoke Infotech". 

The Presentation Experience

Standing before a panel of three esteemed jury members—my advisor, Professor Seng-Cho Chou, and committee members, Professors Chien-Chin Chen and Hsin-Min Lu—I presented the culmination of months of research, planning, and analysis. The experience was both exhilarating and humbling. Their insightful feedback not only validated my efforts but also provided me with valuable perspectives to further refine my ideas.

The focus of my thesis was to develop a business plan for PokaYoke Infotech, an IT services startup aimed at addressing the digital needs of small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) in Southeast Asia. The study delved into understanding the IT infrastructure gaps, budget constraints, and enterprise platform requirements of businesses in the region. Through market analysis and surveys, I proposed strategies to deliver cost-effective, high-quality IT solutions tailored to SMEs, enabling them to achieve competitive advantages.

Acknowledging Support and Gratitude

This accomplishment would not have been possible without the unwavering support of many individuals and institutions:

• Professor Seng-Cho Chou: My deepest gratitude to my thesis advisor for his exceptional guidance throughout the project. His expertise in IT services, software resource management, and quality control was instrumental in shaping the thesis and its practical implementation.

• Professors Chien-Chin Chen and Hsin-Min Lu: Their professional insights during the jury review greatly enriched my understanding and added depth to my research.

• GMBA Office and Faculty: The entire NTU GMBA program played a pivotal role in shaping my academic journey, providing resources, mentorship, and an environment conducive to innovation and learning.

Special Thanks

A heartfelt thanks to Quynh Nga (Ashley) for being present during my thesis presentation and capturing the precious moments through her lens. Her presence and support made this milestone even more memorable.

Looking Ahead

The journey of preparing and presenting this thesis has been transformative. The process not only allowed me to delve deep into the practical challenges of launching a startup but also provided an opportunity to align my business plan with real-world market needs.

The feedback and encouragement I received have already borne fruit—PokaYoke Infotech has begun working with clients from Mexico, Vietnam, and Taiwan, validating the potential of the ideas and strategies outlined in my thesis.

Celebrating Success

Congratulations to all my GMBA peers who have completed this milestone! Each of us has walked a unique path, and it’s inspiring to see the diversity of ideas and dedication within our cohort. This achievement marks not just the end of our academic journey but the beginning of countless new opportunities.

To my professors, parents, family members, GMBA administration, peers, and all who supported me—thank you for making this experience extraordinary. Here’s to the future and the adventures that lie ahead!

Published on Jan 08, 2019 

Venue: GMBA, NTU, Taipei

On November 15-17, 2018, I had the incredible opportunity to attend Meet Taipei 2018, one of Taiwan’s largest gatherings of startup companies. Hosted at the bustling Taipei Expo Dome, this event brought together hundreds of innovators and entrepreneurs from Taiwan and beyond, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with energy, collaboration, and groundbreaking ideas.

I was invited to be part of the event through Startboard Taipei, and I must say, it was an experience that truly shaped my entrepreneurial journey. Meet Taipei was not just an event; it was a powerful platform where startups could showcase their products, exchange knowledge, and connect with potential clients and investors.

I arrived at the event with a clear purpose: to present my business idea and demo software products. At the time, I was just beginning work on my thesis, which centered on developing custom software solutions for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). With the support of colleagues from New Delhi who helped in the software development phase, and partnerships with software vendors specializing in app, web, and enterprise solutions, we were ready to make an impact.

A Booth Full of Ideas

During the event, I had the privilege of setting up a booth to display our demo projects. It was a great chance to explain my ideas to visitors, gather feedback, and showcase the potential of our software solutions. Additionally, I was invited to pitch on the podium, where I presented my business vision to a larger audience. The experience was thrilling and intimidating at the same time, but it was worth it for the exposure and valuable connections.

First Projects and Early Success

The most exciting part of Meet Taipei 2018 was landing my first two software development orders. One project was for a Mexican wine company, and the other was for a Taipei-based football training center. These orders marked a significant milestone for me and my team.

Immediately after securing the contracts, I began working closely with my clients to understand their requirements. I coordinated with my development team back in India to ensure that we delivered high-quality results on time. We successfully completed both projects and even received ongoing maintenance work. For the wine company, we developed a comprehensive warehouse management system integrated with their e-commerce platform, which was a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Learning and Implementing

Working on these projects while writing my thesis felt like the perfect blend of academic learning and real-world application. It was a continuous loop of learning new concepts and implementing them in live projects. The exposure and hands-on experience were invaluable and taught me the importance of adapting quickly and delivering on promises.

Looking back, Meet Taipei 2018 was a pivotal moment in my career. It was where I first turned an idea into real business opportunities, learned to collaborate effectively with a diverse team, and delivered successful projects. The event was full of memories, lessons, and the beginning of long-term professional relationships.

I've captured some of these memorable moments in photos, and they always remind me of where it all started. Meet Taipei 2018 was more than just an event; it was the launchpad for a journey filled with growth, collaboration, and unforgettable experiences.

Published on Nov 17, 2018 

Venue: Taipei Expo Dome

In summer 2018, I was fortunate to join Peking University's (PKU) exchange program on a scholarship as part of my MBA journey. This program provided an immersive academic and cultural experience in Beijing, offering a platform to understand China more deeply and study cutting-edge subjects.

The PKU Summer Program

PKU's summer program is a unique initiative designed for international students. It’s not just about academics; PKU combines rigorous coursework with cultural and social experiences, ranging from city tours to engaging with local students. Faculty from top global universities are invited, bringing a rich diversity of knowledge to the program. The courses cover a range of fields—humanities, social sciences, and interdisciplinary studies—and give students a chance to gain insights into frontier topics.

First Impressions of Peking University

As one of China’s most prestigious universities, PKU is remarkable both for its beautiful campus and its academic legacy. Founded in 1898, PKU embodies values like patriotism, progress, democracy, and science. The campus is a harmonious mix of traditional and modern architecture, with stunning lakes and gardens that make it a truly inspiring place to study. PKU attracts students from all over the world and offers top-notch facilities, making it a vibrant learning environment.

Diving into Big Data Analytics

One of my core courses was on Big Data Analytics, taught by the renowned Prof. M. Tamer Ozsu from the University of Waterloo. This intensive module covered the basics of modern data infrastructure, including platforms like MapReduce and Spark. With lectures and hands-on sessions, we explored the challenges and solutions in big data systems. It was a highly engaging experience and a fantastic introduction to the future of data-driven decision-making.

Exploring Medtech Entrepreneurship

Another standout module was on Medtech Entrepreneurship, led by Prof. Dr. Robert T Chang from Stanford University. We explored digital health, medical regulations, and innovation within healthcare, using the renowned Stanford Biodesign process. As someone interested in entrepreneurship, this course was a goldmine. I even had the chance to deliver a presentation at the Stanford Center on PKU's campus, which was a thrilling experience.

To deepen our understanding, we visited PKU's Department of Ophthalmology, meeting doctors and learning firsthand about medical technologies used to treat eye diseases. This visit gave us an up-close look at healthcare in China and highlighted the potential of tech-driven solutions in medicine.

Unforgettable Moments at the Great Wall

PKU arranged a memorable excursion to the Great Wall of China. With around 30 students and a guide, we took the cableway up and returned via toboggan, a thrilling experience! We spent hours exploring, taking pictures, and appreciating the scale and history of this iconic landmark. The trip was a refreshing break from studies and a chance to bond with fellow students from all over the world.

Campus Life and Challenges

Living on campus was an adventure in itself. The Shaoyuan Guesthouse, where I stayed, had some initial hiccups—room mix-ups and limited facilities, which I hadn’t expected. However, I eventually settled in and appreciated the convenience of nearby amenities like the 24/7 supermarket and local canteens. The PKU campus is well-equipped with everything from ATMs to mobile shops, making student life easier. And though I missed the chance to explore PKU’s library (under renovation), I got to experience campus life, meals, and facilities through my PKU ID card, which allowed me to access services all over campus.

Reflections and Lasting Connections

My time at PKU was as enriching as it was memorable. I not only learned about cutting-edge topics but also formed friendships and built a network with students and professors. Today, I stay in touch with several Chinese friends, and we’re exploring ideas for startups together. The program was a vibrant platform for networking, and I was honored to meet faculty from around the world and learn from their diverse experiences.

Experiencing Beijing was unforgettable—whether I was riding shared bikes around campus, enjoying cultural outings, or presenting in world-class facilities. PKU’s summer program didn’t just teach me academically; it broadened my understanding of China, its people, and its potential for innovation. It’s a journey I’ll always cherish.

Published on July 27, 2018 

Venue: Peking University, Beijing

In March 2018 , while pursuing my Global MBA in Taiwan, I had the unique opportunity to attend a talk by Mr. Sridharan Madhusudhanan, the Director General of the India Taipei Association. This event, held at National Taiwan University (NTU), was part of NTU’s Ambassador Day, where students and faculty gather monthly to hear from diplomats and international leaders. Mr. Madhusudhanan’s talk on the growing India-Taiwan relationship left a deep impression on me, especially as an aspiring entrepreneur keen on fostering connections between Taiwan and India.

The event was organized by NTU’s Provisional Office of the International College, and the enthusiasm among NTU students was clear from the beginning. Students from various backgrounds expressed a strong interest in understanding India’s rapid growth and its potential as a partner in trade, technology, and culture. NTU faculty members also emphasized how vital it was for Taiwan to cultivate relationships with major global players like India.

Understanding the “Links, Logic, and Leverage”

Mr. Madhusudhanan focused his talk on the mutual benefits of India-Taiwan relations, presenting it in a way that was both approachable and eye-opening. He broke down the relationship into what he called the "links, logic, and leverage" between the two countries. Visible links, like the shared values of yoga, meditation, and spirituality, are only the beginning. He went further, highlighting that both nations share a resilient spirit—a quality he referred to as an "invisible link." His example of the success of the Indian film Dangal in Taiwan underscored this connection, showing how both societies identify with the determination to overcome obstacles.

The Promise of Bilateral Growth

What stood out most to me was his discussion of the economic logic behind a stronger India-Taiwan relationship. Taiwan’s New Southbound Policy and India’s Act East Policy complement each other well, and Mr. Madhusudhanan pointed out the symbiotic potential of linking India’s young workforce with Taiwan’s aging population. Such a partnership could offer not only trade benefits but also opportunities for knowledge exchange and labor balance.

Additionally, India’s impressive strides in innovation—like the cost-effective Mars mission—resonate deeply with Taiwan’s own achievements in technology. This vision of both countries innovating for ordinary people instead of just focusing on the elite struck a chord with many of us in the audience. The talk left us considering new paths for cooperation, from technology to public health and beyond.

Bridging the Gap in Education and Startups

One area Mr. Madhusudhanan highlighted was the underutilized potential for educational exchanges between India and Taiwan. NTU’s Vice President of Academic Affairs noted that while NTU is the top university in Taiwan, few Taiwanese students choose India as their first destination for exchange programs. Likewise, Indian students often prioritize North America and Europe for higher education. Mr. Madhusudhanan encouraged us to explore niche markets and find value in these cross-cultural exchanges, emphasizing how such programs could foster deeper connections.

On a personal level, this talk also reinforced my decision to test my startup prototype in Taiwan. Taiwan’s affordable living costs and pro-innovation environment make it a practical choice for budding entrepreneurs. With Taiwan’s growing community of Indian students and startups, I believe there’s an incredible opportunity for those interested in exploring Asia and building a business.

Growing Potential

Today, the number of Indian students in Taiwan is steadily rising, thanks in part to initiatives by the India Taipei Association. With support for higher education and technology-focused programs, the goal of bringing 10,000 Indian students to Taiwan feels within reach. I believe that as these numbers grow, we’ll see more collaborations between Taiwan and India, strengthening our shared interests and driving regional innovation.

Reflecting on Mr. Madhusudhanan’s talk, I feel grateful to have been a part of a meaningful exchange that expanded my perspective on what India-Taiwan relations could achieve. For those interested in Asia’s economic landscape and in exploring new partnerships, I encourage you to consider Taiwan as a starting point for your journey. Together, India and Taiwan can create a future that values innovation, inclusivity, and mutual respect.

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Published on Mar 20, 2018 

Venue: NTU, Taipei