President Gorzkowski, Minister Huang, Chairperson Wei, Deputy Mayor Bai, President Chien, Director Lee, Contestants, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen:
On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to extend our warmest welcome to the 245 young friends from 54 countries who have come to Taiwan to participate in the 2003 International Physics Olympiad. Like the Olympic games, the IPhO brings together the best and the brightest from around the world for a fair competition. Regardless of who claims the ultimate victory, the friendship you make among your fellow contestants will be the most precious award. I would also like to invite you to take the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Taiwan and personally experience the hospitality of our people during your stay.
The International Physics Olympiads plays a crucial role in enhancing international exchanges in physics education. Every year, the event brings high school students together from around the world to compete and learn from each other. The rules of the Olympiad preclude any country or individual from being excluded for political reasons by a host country, and this enlightened principle reminds us that the spirit of knowledge and learning heeds no borders. Taiwan takes great pride and joy in hosting this important event. We will repay this honor by ensuring that all competitors leave with warm hearts and beautiful memories. Meanwhile, we will also continue our enthusiastic support for the search of scientific truth and the promotion of international exchanges.
The pursuit of knowledge not only satisfies individual curiosity and intellectual thirst, but also leads to the revolution of our lifestyle. Humanity rules the globe today thanks to our unparalleled ability to apply reason in the process of exploring the world and our capability for progression. With the ascendance of our capacity for rationality and scientific discovery, humankind escaped the bondage of superstition and ignorance and thereby enhanced our wellbeing.
The development of reason has brought more than the advancement of material civilization. It has also affected a revolutionary transformation of social and political systems. The “divine right” of kings gave way to the universal values of freedom, equality and benevolence, which in turn paved the way for democracy. Just as reason and science have overcome superstitions and ignorance, so will democracy and freedom prevail over tyranny and autocracy.
Recognizing the growing importance of scientific knowledge and training, and following the trend of expansion on compulsory education, more countries have started to review their education systems. Educators in each country may face different challenge and difficulty, however, when it comes to educational reform, almost all countries speak the same language: education should enrich students by emphasizing a comprehensive and balanced development; the focus must be on the learning process instead of test results.
Many of our young friends enter the world of physics and science out of curiosity and personal interest. Some of them are lucky enough to have the chance to pursue this interest and later become outstanding physicists and scientists. Others who are less fortunate lack the proper resources to develop their talents and are usually forced to give up. Therefore, it is very important to provide a sound environment that inspires young minds and nurture talents—the greatest investment we can make. Government and educators must take up the responsibility in offering the best learning opportunities that allow the students’ imagination and creativity to their full play.
Again, I want to extend my warm welcome to you, young friends from all corners of the world. When meeting under such fortunate circumstances, we in Taiwan often say that “fate has brought us together.” Although you have come to Taiwan to compete with and learn from each other, I hope that the friendship you build here will stay with you forever. In closing, I would like to wish all of you good health and happiness. Thank you.