A new Finnish international school has opened in Kaohsiung, southern Taiwan, offering English-language education from kindergarten through high school.
The Kaohsiung Finland International School (KSFIS) held its opening ceremony on Tuesday at Qianjin Elementary School, where the school has its own academic building.
The school opened with more than 20 students from countries including the United States, Australia and Japan. It accepts students who hold foreign passports.
KSFIS aims to bring elements of the Finnish education system to Taiwan. Its approach focuses on student experiences and learning rather than placing a strong emphasis on testing and evaluation.
The school will use methods including phenomenon-based and inquiry-based learning. It is also applying to become an International Baccalaureate (IB) school, with the goal of receiving authorization in 2027.
Lauri Raunio, head of the Finland Trade Center in Taiwan, said the school was established as more Finnish people are working in Taiwan.
Several locations were considered before Kaohsiung was chosen. According to Raunio, the city’s development into a high-tech hub has attracted more foreign residents.
Kaohsiung is currently seeing growth in industries including semiconductors, artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing. The city government said this has increased demand for international talent and educational options for foreign families.
The school’s establishment is also expected to strengthen educational exchanges between Finland and Taiwan.
Source: Focus Taiwan
