Qu Guizhi discusses arms purchase with Chinese media, Cho Jung-tai: Teacher's strong political statements inappropriate

TAIPEI (CNA) -- Taipei First Girls High School teacher Qu Guizhi expressed opposition to arms purchases from the United States during an interview with a Chinese state media outlet, stating that if Taiwanese people admit they are Chinese, "peace will come, and not a single penny of military expenditure will be needed." Premier Cho Jung-tai said today that it is inappropriate for a teacher to express such strong political views, and the Ministry of Education should communicate with the school and the teacher.

Qu Guizhi recently accepted an interview with a program on China's CCTV new media, expressing opposition to Taiwan's arms purchases from the US, claiming that "Taiwanese people are Chinese; if we acknowledge this, peace will come, and not a single penny of military expenditure will be needed." In response, the Mainland Affairs Council stated that Taipei First Girls High School had announced last year that it prohibits faculty and staff from accepting interviews with CCP-affiliated media, and that Ms. Qu Guizhi's actions of cooperating with CCP propaganda should be appropriately handled again.

The Legislative Yuan continued its general interpellation session this morning. Democratic Progressive Party Legislator Chang Hung-lu asked whether the Executive Yuan would urge the Ministry of Education to address teacher Qu Guizhi's remarks, as the Mainland Affairs Council had already stated that the Ministry of Education should handle it.

Cho Jung-tai replied that while educational issues in schools should respect teachers, if a teacher's remarks significantly differ from or severely challenge current national policies, the Ministry of Education should engage in necessary communication with the school and the teacher.

Cho Jung-tai said that teachers influence many students from different families, which can lead to arguments with differing opinions in schools, which is inappropriate. He personally believes that such strong political statements by teachers are "not appropriate," and requested the Ministry of Education and the school to communicate with this teacher regarding her conduct, teaching, and statements.

Chang Hung-lu stated that while he respects teachers' remarks, accepting media interviews gives the impression of politics entering the campus. If all teachers act this way, constantly expressing their own stances on campus, the education system will be chaotic. He urged the Ministry of Education to handle this without delay.

Cho Jung-tai responded to Chang Hung-lu's suggestion, saying, "We will definitely handle it this way." Taiwan does not have a monolithic education system; it aims to inspire students' spontaneous thinking and foster independent personality, rather than indoctrinating students with political power, which is absolutely undesirable. Such phenomena should not exist in a democratic society. (Edited by Wan Shu-chang) 1150512

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