【Text and Photos: Language Center, Min-Hsuan Tsai】

【Translator：Siou-Yao Han】

【Promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) series】

2024-12-04  In active response to the government's New Southbound Policy, the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) has been collaborating with the Sirindhorn Thai Language Institute, Chulalongkorn University, since 2016 to co-host Taiwan’s only Thai language proficiency test officially certified by Thailand—the Chulalongkorn University Proficiency Test of Thai as a Foreign Language (CU-TFL). On November 22, 2024, the 12th CU-TFL co-organized by NUK and Chulalongkorn University was successfully held, further showcasing the outstanding achievements of both institutions in advancing Thai language education.

The CU-TFL is designed for non-native Thai speakers and holds significant certification value and credibility, aiming to provide an accurate and reliable language proficiency assessment. The test evaluates four key language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. It is meticulously designed and supervised by professional examiners from the Sirindhorn Thai Language Institute, Chulalongkorn University, ensuring its rigor and authority. With this certification, candidates' Thai language proficiency is highly recognized by educational institutions and businesses in Thailand, serving as a strong endorsement in both professional and academic fields.

The latest CU-TFL examination was successfully held in Taipei, it was jointly planned and executed by professional examiners appointed by Chulalongkorn University and the Language Center team of the National University of Kaohsiung. To ensure the security and fairness of the test, the Thai organizers transported all examination materials. Thai examiners conducted face-to-face oral tests with the candidates, flexibly adjusting their speaking speed and vocabulary based on candidates' language proficiency. This approach ensured the accuracy and reliability of the test results.

On the examination day, Sophidtha Chaithaworn and Charttreeya Churat, examiners from the Sirindhorn Thai Language Institute at Chulalongkorn University, along with NUK's Language Center Director, Prof. Chih-Wen Chen, and Thai language advisor, Asst. Prof. Warinthorn Paphakin jointly unsealed the examination venue. Demonstrated their deep care for the candidates and their strong commitment to the integrity of the certification process.

With the continued advancement of the New Southbound Policy, economic, educational, and cultural exchanges between Taiwan and Thailand have become increasingly close. The number of people learning Thai in Taiwan has also steadily grown. Candidates for this CU-TFL examination came from various regions and represented a wide range of age groups, including professionals from the corporate, educational, and international affairs sectors. Many participants expressed that the CU-TFL test was not only a personal challenge but also a valuable opportunity for career development. Registration for this test reached full capacity shortly after opening, with the number of candidates hitting a record high compared to previous years, reflecting the growing interest in learning Thai.

In addition, some candidates regularly participate in the CU-TFL examination to continually assess and improve their Thai language skills, highlighting the practical value and long-term significance of this certification in their professional development.

The National University of Kaohsiung will maintain close collaboration with the Sirindhorn Thai Language Institute of Chulalongkorn University, working together to promote Thai language education and cultural exchange, aiming to further strengthen the friendship and cooperation between the two institutions.

The Language Center at NUK regularly offers a variety of language courses, including English, foreign languages, and Chinese courses. These also cover Japanese, Korean, Thai, and Vietnamese language training at various levels. The courses are well-structured and comprehensive, with excellent learning outcomes, earning high praise from students. Interested individuals inside and outside the university can visit the center's website for enrollment information.

NUK's Language Center Official Website: http://lc.nuk.edu.tw/

#SDG4 #SDG17 @ Language Center & Activities