In a strategic move to bolster its presence in the global semiconductor landscape, Taiwan is gearing up to inaugurate its premier overseas IC design training base in Prague, Czech Republic. Spearheaded by the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), the initiative marks a significant milestone in Taiwan's quest to nurture talent beyond its borders.

Minister Wu Tsung-tsong, leading the charge, disclosed plans to kickstart operations at the Prague training base as early as September. Under the expansive 10-year Taiwan CbI program, the goal is to cultivate approximately 100 specialists in the initial phase. This move underscores Taiwan's commitment to collaborative efforts in chip development and underscores the nation's status as a pivotal player in the global semiconductor arena.

With a budget of NT$300 billion (US$9.28 billion), the program signifies a substantial investment in the future of IC design education. The initial infusion of NT$12 billion in the first year sets the stage for a transformative endeavor aimed at propelling Taiwan to the forefront of semiconductor innovation.

The establishment of the training base in Prague not only serves as a testament to Taiwan's global engagement but also presents opportunities for Taiwanese semiconductor companies operating in Europe. By leveraging local talent, these companies can enhance their competitive edge and contribute to the growth of the semiconductor ecosystem on a global scale.

Scheduled to formalize the partnership, the Taiwan Semiconductor Research Institute (TSRI) will collaborate with Czech Technical University to establish a dedicated office in Prague. This collaboration paves the way for the commencement of training courses in September, catering to a diverse cohort of international students.

The training base in Prague will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure, ensuring a conducive learning environment for participants. Collaborating with local universities, the base will offer entry-level IC design training sessions, laying the groundwork for future advancements in semiconductor technology.

While the training base in Prague serves as a gateway to international collaboration, Taiwan remains the epicenter for advanced IC processes. As Taiwan continues to lead the charge in semiconductor innovation, initiatives like the overseas training base underscore the nation's commitment to fostering global partnerships and driving technological advancement.