The Executive Yuan announced a partial Cabinet reshuffle today involving new ministers of transportation, culture and technology as well as three top Executive Yuan officials.
National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) Vice President Yan Hong-sen has been appointed minister without portfolio of the Executive Yuan. Holding a doctorate in mechanical engineering from Purdue University in the U.S., Yan previously served as associate professor at the State University of New York at Stony Brook, professor of engineering at NCKU, director-general of the National Science and Technology Museum, and president of Da-Yeh University. His many years in the education field have given him a keen sense of where the industry is headed. Yan will be instrumental in coordinating policies on education and industry-university cooperation.
Chien Tai-lang takes over as secretary-general of the Executive Yuan. A graduate of National Chung Hsing University in sociology, he was formerly deputy minister of the Ministry of the Interior, and deputy secretary-general and minister without portfolio of the Executive Yuan. Chien worked his way up from local governments to the central level and is adept at communicating, coordinating and promoting policies across agencies.
Chen Jian-yu steps in as head of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC). Chen received his LL.B. degree from Soochow University and specializes in law. Having served many years in various transportation sectors, his strength lies in regulation and management of government procurements and public construction. Chen previously served as chief secretary of the Public Construction Commission, and chief secretary and deputy minister of the MOTC.
Hung Meng-chi, holding a doctorate in East Asian studies from National Chengchi University, assumes the post of minister of culture. Hung has experience as a director-general of the Council for Cultural Affairs, secretary-general of the Taipei County Government and deputy minister of the Ministry of Culture. Possessing deep knowledge of the cultural environment, he has spent many years formulating culture policies and promoting cultural activities.
Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) President Shyu Jyuo-min has been appointed minister of science and technology. He earned his doctorate in electrical engineering and computer sciences from the University of California at Berkeley, and was formerly dean of electrical engineering and computer science at National Tsing Hua University and vice chancellor of the University System of Taiwan. Shyu has led teams in cutting-edge research and development for 18 years at ITRI, amassing a wealth of experience in technological innovation and industrial cooperation.
Shyu Jong-shyong takes over as deputy secretary-general of the Executive Yuan. Holding a Ph.D. in physical disability welfare from the University of Northern Colorado, Shyu previously served as a member of the Legislature and deputy mayor of Taichung City. His extensive experiences at the parliament and local governments will serve Secretary-General Chien well in strengthening communications with the public.