National Taiwan University Professors Back Puma Shen and Propose Visionary Taipei Policies

A growing coalition of academics, including nearly 1,300 scholars from National Taiwan University and other prominent institutions, has officially thrown its support behind Puma Shen, advocating for a fresh political vision for Taipei. The academic backing centers on a comprehensive platform featuring four major policy proposals aimed at modernizing urban governance, fostering technological innovation, and redefining the city’s international standing.

Among the core initiatives endorsed by the professors are the implementation of an AI-driven digital wallet system and a targeted youth empowerment program known as the ‘Dream Realization Project.’ Supporters argue that Taipei requires visionary leadership capable of steering the municipality through complex global challenges rather than relying on outdated administrative models. Scholars have also emphasized the importance of autonomous cultural and civic development, suggesting that Taipei’s identity should not be conflated merely with regional counterparts like Shanghai, but rather nurtured as a distinct democratic hub.

While public debates continue regarding the broader political landscape and various legislative strategies, the formation of the academic support network highlights a strong desire among intellectuals for evidence-based policymaking. The proposed establishment of a dedicated ‘Taipei Research Institute’ aims to aggregate civic wisdom and provide long-term strategic guidance for city administration. Proponents believe this intellectual mobilization could significantly influence future municipal governance and civic engagement across Taiwan.