PTWA works with children who are often raised by single parents or grandparents or have two working parents with below income. The after-school program is an attractive option for these families as it offers support from teachers and a meal. Su believes coding can change the lives of the people living in rural communities because all that is needed is the internet. He takes advantage of the era where being a programmer means one doesn't need to be physically in cities like Silicon Valley and can serve one's career purpose from one's hometown.
This year, NCKU introduced its tenth faculty, naming it College X, “X,” the number ten in Roman numerals. College X offers cross-faculty studies, disregards examination marks, and praises practical skills. Students collaborate and build on one another's unique skills as each member shines in different disciplines. Each student has the opportunity to be the star, and not one is perfect. The concept offers underprivileged students who may not have the chance to receive quality education due to the community in which they were born an opportunity to enter university. Currently, two kids, Su, taught in the church after-school program in Chiayi and now attend College X.
In August 2018, Su organized a National Robotics Competition. Ninety-six teams were registered, and over 200 teachers and students participated. Su applauds student-led inventions where winning isn't the ultimate goal but experience, innovation, developing logical thinking skills, and problem-solving under pressure. Sponsored by Pegatron Corporation, an event traditionally held on the west coast of Taiwan, the 2018 competition was deliberately held in Hualien to encourage awareness and empathy for those living in the east and the distances they travel, some taking up to 12 hours, for events such as this one. The 2019 competition will take place in Taitung.
Though education opportunities are small in rural areas, children still have the power to change their lives. With persistence, Su believes they will succeed. If students trust that someone will always be there for them, even if they give up on themselves, they will eventually find their way back, knowing they have the support. Perhaps the world needs more people like Su to contribute to society and open up opportunities for growth and change in their communities.
