Department of Information Technology

On June 20, Mayor Chiang Wan-an attended the press conference announcing the city government’s plan for new subsidies for kids between 2 and 4 years old from qualified families attending private kindergarten in Taipei City starting this August, as well as the establishment of the Preschooler STEAM Education Center. 

According to Chiang, the “Baby I Love You Private Preschool Education Subsidy Program” targets preschoolers between 2 and 4. The program is limited to household that meets the following requirements: (1) At least one of the parents (or guardian) has household registration in Taipei, and (2) for the most recent tax year, both parents (or guardian) have progressive income tax rate of less than 20%. Qualified households will receive subsidy of NT$26,000 per semester (NT$52,000 per school year) to help finance the cost for attending the private kindergarten.

Chiang stressed that the primary objective of the policy is to lessen the burden on parents and create an environment that is friendly for kids’ learning. As the father of three kids, he understands the importance of a good learning environment. Regarding the recent kindergarten-related crisis, the mayor announced that the city government have inspected institutes under its jurisdiction and have found no cases of inappropriate drug administration. To put parents’ minds at ease, five campuses of Taipei City Hospital will offer government-funded blood test. It will also collaborate with Taipei Pharmacists Association to organize drug administration safety seminars as a way to strengthen trust between schools and parents. 

As for the Preschool STEAM Center, the mayor explained that the focus will be on how to employ STEAM method to allow kids to learn through playing. STEAM highlights the areas of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Through course design and teaching materials, the approach seeks to enhance students’ learning, encouraging them to learn through games and activities. 

At the end of his speech, the mayor expressed his gratitude to educare givers for their contributions. Their compassion and patience allow kids to grow up in a caring environment, and the city government will continue to provide them with solid backing.