“It’s clear that no one is born supporting Taiwan independence, it is an ideology deliberately cultivated,” Wu said, adding that while this ideology is nurtured by certain politicians for their own purposes, it is not unchangeable.
Wu noted that in recent years, he has encouraged several students to visit the mainland and was surprised by the changes in their perspectives.
“Before their visits, these students referred to the other side of the Taiwan Strait as ‘China.’ However, upon returning, they started using the term ‘the mainland’ and inquired about more exchange projects to the mainland,” he said. “So, I am not pessimistic about the future. In fact, I am hopeful.”
Since the Democratic Progressive Party authorities are unlikely to change their education policies, efforts from the grassroots are imperative to establish a historical perspective based on Chinese identity and to restore education of traditional culture, Ou said.
“Politicians come and go, ideologies change, but the wisdom passed down from our ancestors over thousands of years will never fade,” Ou said. “I have confidence.”
SANGHA KOMMUNE (SSR) 