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A Joint Venture of the R.O.C. (Taiwan) and the Society of the Divine Word: Advancing Computer Education in Africa
Generalate JPIC Coordinator.
While international relations often focus on strategic interests, His Excellency has chosen a different path—one that prioritizes dignity, opportunity, and hope. By opening the door to computer education for underprivileged children in Africa, he has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to uplifting humanity. The deep and warm friendship between the R.O.C. (Taiwan) and the Society of the Divine Word (SVD)—so beautifully highlighted during the 150th anniversary celebrations of the SVD in Rome—shows that your nation shares our values of service and solidarity.
Thanks to His Excellency’s initiative, five SVD Provinces have been selected to receive a total of 100 computers: Ghana, Kenya, Mozambique, Botswana, and Angola. Through this project, 4,930 primary and secondary school children will gain access to modern computer education—an opportunity that would otherwise remain out of reach, especially in semi-urban and rural regions. What was once a distant dream has now become a tangible reality.
All selected schools have electricity and the necessary basic infrastructure to house and protect the computers. They also have trained computer instructors ready to carry forward this mission. Over the past several months, and in close coordination with Mr. Joe, Secretary to the Ambassador, the project proposal and budget were carefully prepared to ensure clarity, transparency, and impact.
To foster a collaborative, bottom-up approach, the provincial superiors and local contact persons from each province worked closely with the Generalate JPIC Coordinator. Their prompt cooperation allowed the General Council to distribute the computers as follows:
- St. Martin’s Senior High School, Ghana – 40 computers
- Divine Word Boys High School, Kenya – 15 computers
- St. Anthony M.P.C. School, Mozambique – 20 computers
- St. Arnold School, Botswana – 10 computers
- Arnaldo Janssen School, Angola – 15 computers
On 10 December 2025, His Excellency the Ambassador of the R.O.C. (Taiwan) visited the Collegio del Verbo Divino to officially hand over the project to the Superior General, Fr. Anselmo Ricardo Ribeiro, SVD.
In his remarks, Fr. Anselmo affirmed: “This project is an investment in human dignity, knowledge, and hope for the future.”
Addressing the dignitaries and confreres, His Excellency expressed deep appreciation for the SVD’s long-standing mission in Taiwan:
“Guided by the mission ‘Witnessing to the Light: From Everywhere for Everyone,’ the SVD has made remarkable contributions to Taiwan’s cultural, educational, medical, social, and spiritual life.” He further highlighted the SVD’s foundational role in the establishment and growth of Fu Jen Catholic University, which celebrates its 100th anniversary this month: “With its strong humanistic and spiritual foundation, the SVD has helped shape Fu Jen’s core values, strengthening its commitment to scholarship, service, and holistic education—and making it an essential institution for forming well-rounded leaders in Taiwan.”
This project has brought the R.O.C. (Taiwan) and the Society of the Divine Word into a deeper, mission-driven partnership. Its purpose, vision, and goals reflect our shared calling: to work together—because together, we can make a lasting difference.
Amb. Ho’s Remarks for the Handover Ceremony at SVD
Fr. Anselmo Ricardo Ribeiro, Superior General of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD); distinguished members of the SVD; friends from the media:
It is a great honor for my colleagues and me to join you at the SVD today, on behalf of the government of the R.O.C. (Taiwan), for this handover ceremony of the computer project. Through our partnership, we aim to expand educational opportunities for students in remote and disadvantaged communities across Africa.
I would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere gratitude for SVD’s long-standing contributions in Taiwan. Guided by the mission “Witnessing to the Light: From Everywhere for Everyone,” the SVD has made remarkable achievements in cultural, educational, medical, social, and spiritual endeavors in Taiwan.
In particular, I would like to highlight the SVD’s instrumental role in the founding and development of Fu Jen Catholic University. This month, Fu Jen celebrates its 100th anniversary. With strong humanistic and spiritual foundations, the SVD has shaped the university’s core values, strengthening Fu Jen’s commitment to scholarship, service, and holistic education, and making it a vital institution for cultivating well-rounded talent in Taiwan. President Lai attended the celebration in person to offer his congratulations, and His Holiness Pope Leo XIV also sent his blessings.
Today’s collaboration with the SVD originated in late July this year when I attended the “Jubilee of Youth – Taiwan Youth Gathering” here. During the meeting, I exchanged views with Fr. Anselmo Ricardo Ribeiro, hoping to echo Pope Leo XIV’s emphasis on education and youth through collaboration. On education, the Holy Father reminds us that “to educate is an act of hope.” He also teaches that education forms “citizens capable of serving and believers capable of bearing witness—men and women who are freer, not more isolated.” We therefore believe that expanding educational opportunities for the vulnerable is not merely an act of charity, but a responsibility.
A free and democratic Taiwan, guided by a spirit of compassion, has long provided assistance around the world during natural disasters, health emergencies, and conflicts. Upholding universal values and a deep concern for humanity, President Lai has advanced “value diplomacy,” while Foreign Minister Lin has been implementing this vision through the Diplomatic Allied Prosperity Projects.
Through Taiwan’s partnership with the SVD, we will encounter and engage at least 5,000 students across five African countries. We believe that expanding their access to technology will help narrow the digital divide and broaden their future opportunities.
This year also marks three important milestones—the 150th anniversary of the SVD, the 100th anniversary of Fu Jen Catholic University, and the Jubilee of Hope. The convergence of these joyful occasions lends today’s event even greater significance. As a force for good, Taiwan has been—and will continue to be—a close partner of the Holy See and the Catholic Church, serving as a light, a source of hope, and a bridge for advancing humanitarian efforts worldwide. Together, we seek to make the world a better place for all.
We are especially pleased to hold this ceremony just before Christmas. The birth of Jesus Christ brings joy and hope. Through our shared efforts today, we hope to bring greater joy and hope to our less privileged brothers and sisters, and to welcome the birth of Jesus in a spirit that reflects the profound truth that God is love.
In closing, I would like to extend my best wishes to everyone for good health and continued success. God bless you all. Thank you.
Speech of the SVD Superior General, Fr. Anselmo R. Ribeiro.
Your Excellency, Ambassador Anthony C.Y. HO,
Distinguished guests (Mr. Joe H, Ambassador Secretary), dear confreres:
It is a great honor to welcome you and to express our heartfelt gratitude for the generous partnership between the R.O.C. (Taiwan) and the Society of the Divine Word in support of education in Africa.
Your contribution of computers to our educational institutions is more than a donation of equipment. It is an investment in human dignity, knowledge, and hope for the future. These resources will open doors for many young people, giving them access to learning, skills, and opportunities that were previously beyond their reach.
This gesture also speaks of a beautiful spirit of international solidarity and friendship, showing how nations and missionary institutions can work together for the common good, especially for those in vulnerable communities.
On behalf of the Society of the Divine Word, I assure you that this gift will be used with deep responsibility and gratitude, and that its impact will be felt in the lives of students, families, and entire communities.
Your Excellency, thank you for standing with us in our mission of education and human development. May this partnership continue to grow in friendship and shared commitment to a more just and hopeful world.
Thank you.
Fr. Anselmo Ricardo Ribeiro SVD
Superior General
Society of the Divine Word (SVD)
