Representative Steinke delivers a lively and humorous presentation that takes students and teachers on a journey through Czech history and culture, filling the room with laughter and enthusiasm.

To promote international cultural exchange and foster global perspectives among students, the New Taipei City Government today invited David Steinke, Representative of the Czech Economic and Cultural Office in Taipei, to speak at New Taipei Municipal Touqian Junior High School. Under the theme “Czech and Taiwan: So Far Yet So Close,” Steinke shared insights into Czech history, culture, and daily life with nearly 900 students and teachers. The engaging session was filled with warm interaction and laughter throughout.
 
In his presentation, Steinke highlighted the close ties between the Czech Republic and Taiwan. He also shared personal stories from his daily work and life as the Czech representative in Taiwan. He expressed his delight at meeting such an enthusiastic group of students and helping them gain a well-rounded first impression of the Czech Republic. Steinke said he hoped the talk would spark their interest in international culture and foreign affairs, and inspire them to one day visit the Czech Republic to study, travel, and experience its culture firsthand.
 

Czech Representative David Steinke speaks at New Taipei Municipal Touqian Junior High School at the invitation of the New Taipei City Government Secretariat. Nearly 900 students and teachers join him for a group photo, as Principal Hsu Shu-chen presents a calligraphy gift in appreciation.

Touqian Junior High School Principal Hsu Shu-chen stated that the event provided a meaningful opportunity for international exchange. It broadened their understanding of the world, motivated them to improve their English skills, and encouraged them to explore different cultures. She added that the school will continue to organize similar activities to enable students to engage directly with international guests, broaden their horizons, and inspire their dreams. Such experiences, she emphasized, help students build the confidence to step onto the global stage.
 
Seventh grader Chiu Hsuan-chen said that she was surprised to learn that Steinke enjoys tea eggs and was even more impressed that he was willing to try stinky tofu, calling him “very brave.” She added that the biggest takeaway from the event was improving her English listening skills and gaining the confidence to ask questions in English. In the future, she hopes to hear from diplomats from countries such as South Korea or the United States. Seventh grader Liao Yu-hsuan shared that she finds the idea of living in another country and interacting with people from different cultures fascinating. She hopes to learn more about diplomats’ work at future events. Ninth grader Yeh Chun-cheng noted that he was learning about Sedlec Ossuary, also known as the “Church of Bones” for the first time. After hearing about it from Steinke, he was inspired to visit the Czech Republic to experience its local culture and traditions firsthand.
 

Students eagerly approach Representative Steinke for conversation following the talk.

Director General of the New Taipei City Government Secretariat Juh Hui-mei stated that the city has long been committed to promoting diverse international exchanges. Looking ahead, the city government plans to invite more representatives from diplomatic missions in Taiwan to visit schools and share their insights. These engagements allow students to develop global perspectives and intercultural understanding from an early age, fostering a new generation of citizens with a truly international outlook.


Representative Steinke (fifth from left) and Principal Hsu Shu-chen (sixth from left) pose for a group photo with students, marking a heartwarming conclusion to the event.