Department of Public Affairs, FGU

In the Yilan region, the presence of surrounding military bases and the reserve force system has brought together a large number of active-duty military personnel. These individuals possess strong expertise in military affairs, organizational discipline, and mission execution, and they have long contributed to national security and social stability. However, the current military training system focuses mainly on military skills and mission-oriented instruction. As a result, there is a lack of systematic training—especially degree-granting programs—related to legal institutions, public governance, and regional political-economic structures.

As regional political and economic dynamics change rapidly and the demands for the rule of law and good governance increase, this structural gap has become increasingly evident. Military personnel, when facing international and regional developments, policy environments, and institutional frameworks, often rely only on fragmented information or informal learning. This makes it difficult for them to build a comprehensive and analytically robust knowledge system. This situation affects not only their understanding of public issues and institutional operations during service but may also limit their career flexibility and ability to transition to other fields in the future. Moreover, the lack of legal and policy literacy has made some vulnerable to manipulation or infiltration by illicit actors, leading to civil disputes, criminal investigations, and even involvement in major national security cases.

Furthermore, whether continuing in military service or transitioning into civilian industries, public agencies, or social organizations after completing service, military personnel increasingly need literacy in the rule of law and a broad regional political-economic perspective. These competencies have become essential foundations for extending their professional capabilities and developing a second career. However, currently available continuing education opportunities still lack formal, credit-bearing programs specifically designed for adult learners in the military and reserve systems—programs that integrate public administration, legal studies, and regional political economy.

Therefore, based on its long-standing experience in cultivating public service professionals and its deep understanding of the local needs in Yilan, the department has planned to establish a “Regional Political Economy and Rule of Law Program” to address this educational gap and provide a systematic academic pathway for military and reserve personnel.