"Place" encompasses multifaceted dimensions, while "study" also carries diverse meanings. Bringing the two together into "Local Studies" unlocks a rich spectrum of interpretative possibilities. When we view a place as a captivating subject of inquiry, we uncover a wealth of cultural and historical treasures. Meanwhile, the concept of genius loci—or the "spirit of place"—represents the enduring symbolic essence of a locality, fostering a deep sense of identity and pride.

This lecture aims to illuminate the connection between Local Studies and the spirit of place. It also invites students, whether in their hometowns or studying away from home, to deepen their self-awareness through the process of knowing and engaging with place.

Speaker

Chung-Hwa Ku

Senior Advisor to the President; Professor Emeritus, Department of Sociology, National Chengchi University

Born in 1956, Chung-Hwa Ku holds a Ph.D. in Sociology from Heidelberg University, Germany, and is a former professor in the Department of Sociology at National Chengchi University (NCCU). His areas of expertise include sociological theory, civil society, and non-profit organizations.

Professor Ku has made extensive contributions to civic advocacy, having served as President of the Taipei Society, Founding President of the National Association for the Promotion of Community Colleges (NAPCU), Founding Chairperson of Citizen Congress Watch (CCW), and Chairman of the Yin Hai-kuang Foundation. He has served as Senior Advisor to the President since May 20, 2016, and was awarded the inaugural Taiwan Cultural Association Medal (MOC) by the Ministry of Culture in 2021.

🌎The lecture will be delivered in Mandarin.

Date: 08 Oct. 2026 (Thu.) , 15：30-17：20

Sign-in: starting from 15:00 PM.

Venue: International Building, Room 301 (IB-301)

Registration:  the bottom of the page to fill out the registration form.

🌟 Benefits

📢Get a limited-edition meal voucher!

Just sign up for the lecture and fill out our feedback survey after the event. You can then grab a meal voucher at the sign-in desk before you leave. These are super limited, so make sure you claim yours while supplies last!

📢Share your thoughts and win big!

Want to win a prize just for writing about your experience? Here's your chance!

How to Attend:

📅Submission deadline: Submit your feedback essay by midnight on the day of the lecture.

✍️Word count: No word count minimum, but your submission must be relevant to the lecture.

🎁Prizes: The top entry will receive a NT$200 convenience store gift card!

Don't miss out on these fantastic offers! We can't wait to see you there!

📢【Attend 5 General Education Lectures and Receive 2 Movie Tickets!】

During the campaign period, please complete the online check-in form when registering for each General Education lecture and participate in the entire lecture.

At the end of the semester, the organizer will review participants’ attendance records. Those who have attended 5 or more lectures will receive 2 movie tickets for Ambassador Theatres. Winners will be notified separately by the organizer.

Come join our General Education lectures and don’t miss out! 🎬✨

Contact

📞 Ms. Wu, Center  for General Education
📧 yachin0930@mail.ntust.edu.tw
📱 (02) 2730-1182

 Advisors： Ministry of Education

Organized by: National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (NTUST) Higher Education Sprout Project, Center for General Education