By Scout Nelson
Four Kansas State University students traveled to Taiwan from August 8–16, 2025, as part of the Taiwan Agricultural Youth Exchange Program. This bilateral exchange provides students with opportunities to learn about Taiwan’s agricultural industry and strengthen connections between Kansas and Taiwan.
Suzanne Ryan-Numrich, Ag Marketing Division Director at the Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA), highlighted the value of this program. “During their time in Taiwan, these students gained new global perspectives, learned how to navigate cultural differences, and communicated across language barriers. These experiences will not only make them more competitive in the job market, but also prepare them to become more thoughtful, engaged leaders ready to take on global challenges.”
The delegates included Preston Dunn of St. John, senior in Agricultural Economics and Animal Sciences and Industry; Anna Koch of Rose Hill, senior in Animal Sciences and Industry; Madison Seyb of Johnson, junior in Animal Sciences and Industry; and Grace Young of Osawatomie, student of Milling Science and Bakery Science. They were accompanied by Dana Ladner, Compliance Education and Workforce Development Coordinator at KDA.
During their stay, the group visited National Chung Hsing University, engaged with local students, met officials at the Taiwan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and toured agricultural facilities, including dragon fruit farms, hydroponic systems, tea research stations, and meat processing plants.
“From dragon fruit farms and hydroponic systems to tea research stations and meat processing facilities, I learned so much about how farming looks in a different part of the world,” said Young. “Programs like this don’t just educate; they inspire future leaders to think globally, connect meaningfully, and bring fresh ideas back to Kansas agriculture.”
Dunn shared his perspective: “While I enjoyed many of the stops along the way, a few of my favorites were touring multiple meat processing facilities and gaining insight into their practices. I also found it especially meaningful to hear a farmer share how he is innovating to attract young people back to agriculture and revitalize his rural community.”
The exchange program is coordinated by KDA and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Denver, with sponsorship from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office, Kansas State University College of Agriculture, and KDA. In 2024, Kansas exported $209 million in agricultural products to Taiwan, making it the state’s sixth-largest agricultural trading partner.
Each fall, KDA opens applications for the Taiwan Agricultural Youth Exchange, encouraging Kansas college students to participate in this unique global learning opportunity.
Photo Credit:kansas-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Kansas, Business