To foster friendship and exchange among architecture students from Taiwan and seven Southeast Asian countries, the “New (-) Grounds” forum provides a platform for in-depth academic dialogue and critical reflection on architectural education and practice. In 2026, the National University of Singapore (NUS) hosted the forum under the theme “New Common Ground” in conjunction with Archifest, Singapore’s annual architecture festival.
Ming Chuan University Department of Architecture student Hui-Yu Mu participated in the forum and presented the team’s work together with the New Common Ground team, engaging in exchanges with students from Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, and other countries.
Following its hosting of the “New Interpreted Ground” forum in 2024, the Department of Architecture at Ming Chuan University once again took part in this international platform for architectural exchange in 2026, continuing to strengthen its connections with architectural education across Southeast Asia.
Associate Dean of the College of Design, Jeanne Lee , also traveled to Singapore from July 20 to 25 to participate in the forum and a range of international architectural exchange activities. During her visit, she was invited to attend exchange events organized by AIA International and the Singapore Institute of Architects (SIA), where she also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the New Taipei City Architects Association and SIA, further expanding international collaboration and exchange in the architectural profession.
In addition, in her capacity as Chairperson of the Taiwan Global Association of Architects and Scholars Exchange, Lee led, together with representatives from relevant organizations, a group of students and faculty who received the “Sen Award” on visits to international firms, including Takenaka Corporation, Aedas Singapore, and Sunray Woodcraft Construction. Through on-site visits and professional exchanges, the participants gained a deeper understanding of developments in architectural design, construction engineering, and integrated interior design.
Lee noted that in recent years, the Department of Architecture at Ming Chuan University has continued to expand its connections with architectural education and the professional sector in Southeast Asia. Through international forums, student presentations, and visits to architectural and construction firms, students are able to extend their learning from academic inquiry to professional practice. Looking ahead, the department will continue to connect with overseas universities, professional organizations, and industry resources, providing students with more opportunities for international learning and cross-cultural exchange.
In the photo above, Ming Chuan University student Hui-Yu Mu and her team members present their design project to the Chair of AIA International, who is pictured wearing a suit.