The ministry is setting up the 'Taiwan Experimental High School' to run a curriculum concentrated on basic science, United Daily News reported, with first-year enrollment planned at about 30 students.

The school is being founded separately from the science tracks in existing high schools. The concept covers mathematics, physics, chemistry and biology in depth, with expanded inquiry projects linked to universities and research institutes.

Behind it lies a concern that Taiwan must cultivate researchers capable of Nobel-level basic work. Taiwan holds world standing in applied fields such as semiconductors, but its foundation in basic science research has been criticized as comparatively thin.

Education groups responded that 'the decisive factor is ultimately the teachers.' Unless faculty able to lead advanced coursework are secured and retained over the long term, the new school will struggle to differentiate itself.

Selection methods and assessment criteria remain open questions, with some warning that recruiting a small elite could generate a new form of entrance competition.

For Taiwan's overseas Chinese schools and Taiwanese students abroad, the shift in pathways may also matter. Application details and eligibility will have to be confirmed in forthcoming announcements.