TAIPEI, Taiwan – At least 25 nationals of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) graduated from universities in Taiwan in 2026, while another 36 have been granted scholarships to pursue university degrees here this fall.
Most of the graduates were funded by scholarships from the government of Taiwan, specifically through Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund.
One graduate completed his studies under a basketball scholarship from a Taiwan university, while at least two others funded their own education.
Of the 22 graduates who were on Taiwan government scholarships, 13 completed first degrees, and seven completed master’s degrees.
The other two graduated with doctoral degrees in aquatic immunology and genetics, and business administration, respectively.
The undergraduate and master’s graduates obtained degrees in a wide range of fields, including mechanical and electrical engineering, international relations and diplomacy, computer science, education, nursing, psychology, forestry and natural resources, biomedical imaging, and culture and creative industries.
Most of the students opted to have their success documented in the 2026 graduation yearbook, the sixth edition published by the SVG Embassy here.
In his message to the 2026 graduates, SVG’s Prime Minister, Godwin Friday, said the students’ graduation resulted from their affirmation years ago to study in Taiwan.
“Take time to appreciate the importance of that decision. It has led you to this moment.”
The prime minister said the graduates’ achievements highlighted the value of the 45 years of unbroken diplomatic relations between SVG and Taiwan.
“Over the decades, our partnership has remained strong, rooted in mutual respect and shared investment in education, development, and progress. Your success today is a living testament to the benefits of that enduring friendship,” Friday said.
The prime minister expressed hope that the graduates would bring their skills, ideas, and energy to SVG.
He said, however, “… no matter where your path leads you, fly the flag of St. Vincent and the Grenadines proudly and continue to do your best. Carry forward the same determination that has brought you thus far, remain steadfast in your commitment to community, and never give up on your dreams.”
Meanwhile, SVG’s Ambassador to Taiwan, Kenton X. Chance, celebrated the graduates, assuring them that their challenges were relatable, as he, too, was once a scholarship student in Taiwan, from 2006 to 2012.
“I know that being so far from home, in an unfamiliar country, where the language is so different, requires a kind of fortitude that those who have never experienced it might never fully understand. … You have stayed the course, you have overcome the obstacles, and you are graduating,” Ambassador Chance said in his message to the graduates.
Since 2004, some 321 Vincentians have been granted scholarships to pursue university-level studies in Taiwan.
So far this year, 36 Vincentians have accepted scholarships to pursue degrees in Taiwan, with some scheduled to study Mandarin Chinese for one year before beginning their university studies.
“The Embassy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the Republic of China is preparing to welcome the new scholarship recipients to Taiwan and stands ready to help make their transition as smooth as possible,” Chance said.