Shih Hsin University President's Commencement Speech Sparks Controversy; School Clarifies Intent
Shih Hsin University President Chen Ching-ho, during a commencement ceremony on May 30, advised students to manage their time, emotions, and health, stating that if they failed to do so, they should 'end themselves,' sparking online debate. The university issued a clarification on June 4, stating the intent was to encourage resilience.
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- 📰 Published: June 4, 2026 at 18:00
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(Central News Agency, Taipei, June 4, reporter Chen Zhizhong) During a recent commencement ceremony at Shih Hsin University, President Chen Ching-ho advised students to manage their time, emotions, and health, and stated that if they failed to do so, they should 'end themselves quickly,' sparking online controversy. The university clarified the intent of the speech today.
Shih Hsin University held its 114th academic year commencement ceremony on the evening of May 30. During the master's and doctoral session, President Chen shared his experience with self-management, stating that he would never let others perceive his fatigue.
However, President Chen's subsequent remarks sparked heated debate online. He warned graduates entering the workforce, 'If you don't manage your time, your emotions, or your health well, I tell you, end yourself quickly, because there is no longer any need for you in this world.'
In a statement posted on its website today, the university explained that President Chen's intent was to encourage graduates to cultivate resilience in the face of future career challenges and environmental changes, to balance work and life, and to take care of their physical and mental health.
Acknowledging that the remarks caused student anxiety due to differing interpretations, President Chen expressed understanding and respect through the university's statement. He reflected on the need for continued listening and dialogue when considering the perspectives of different generations on work, life, and self-worth.
The university thanked students and the public for their feedback and committed to continuing to listen to all opinions and striving to create a more friendly, inclusive campus environment that values physical and mental health. (Editor: Zhang Mingkun) 1150604
Suicide Prevention Hotline: In Taiwan, please call the 1995 Lifeline, 1980 Teacher Chang hotline, or 1925 Ministry of Health and Welfare安心專線 (Peace of Mind Hotline).
Shih Hsin University held its 114th academic year commencement ceremony on the evening of May 30. During the master's and doctoral session, President Chen shared his experience with self-management, stating that he would never let others perceive his fatigue.
However, President Chen's subsequent remarks sparked heated debate online. He warned graduates entering the workforce, 'If you don't manage your time, your emotions, or your health well, I tell you, end yourself quickly, because there is no longer any need for you in this world.'
In a statement posted on its website today, the university explained that President Chen's intent was to encourage graduates to cultivate resilience in the face of future career challenges and environmental changes, to balance work and life, and to take care of their physical and mental health.
Acknowledging that the remarks caused student anxiety due to differing interpretations, President Chen expressed understanding and respect through the university's statement. He reflected on the need for continued listening and dialogue when considering the perspectives of different generations on work, life, and self-worth.
The university thanked students and the public for their feedback and committed to continuing to listen to all opinions and striving to create a more friendly, inclusive campus environment that values physical and mental health. (Editor: Zhang Mingkun) 1150604
Suicide Prevention Hotline: In Taiwan, please call the 1995 Lifeline, 1980 Teacher Chang hotline, or 1925 Ministry of Health and Welfare安心專線 (Peace of Mind Hotline).