The Taipei Representative Office in the EU and Belgium hosted a discussion session for the 2024 Taipei City “Outstanding Special Education Teachers” Delegation on March 7. Two educational representatives from Flanders were invited to the discussion to introduce the local education system and programs to the delegation members. Addressing the attendees, Ambassador Roy Chun Lee also encouraged further collaboration and exchanges between both sides in the future.
Jens Vermeersch, Chair of the Commission for International Education and Training Policies of the Flemish Education Council, introduced the Belgian government system and the "GO!" public education network. GO! is the public education network in the Flemish Community of Belgium and its governance structure spans central, regional, and local levels. Schools in Flanders have autonomy but must adhere to government regulations and quality standards, which are ensured through self-evaluation and external inspections. GO! aims to provide inclusive, high-quality education, focusing on digital innovation, diversity, teacher support, and lifelong learning. GO! is also active in international collaborations, participating in Erasmus+ projects and European education networks to enhance learning opportunities and global engagement.
Then, Tim Van Aken, Representative of Catholic Education Flanders, highlighted his organization’s role in supporting schools within Flanders and Brussels. Its Internationalization & Partnerships Team oversees Erasmus+ and E-twinning projects at local and international levels. Since 2021, the organization has expanded its focus to school education (SCH),adult education (AE), and vocational education and training (VET).
The organization also hopes to arrange educators from Flanders to visit Taipei educational exchange. The presentation concluded with a commitment to fostering international collaboration and partnerships.
Subsequently, the delegation members and the two educational representatives engaged in an enthusiastic discussion about future bilateral educational cooperation and exchange between Taiwan and Flanders.
