In the courtyard of the Chung Hsing private high school in Taipei, desks and chairs are piled high like a monument, reflecting the closure of the school in 2019 due to financial difficulties. The decline in enrolment was a result of Taiwan’s ongoing struggle to meet the replacement rate needed for a stable population.
The low birth rate in Taiwan has far-reaching consequences, affecting educational institutions, military recruitment, and economic stability. Private schools are particularly vulnerable, with many facing closure. Demographers and governments are concerned about the impact of shrinking generations on the workforce and public services.
Efforts to boost birth rates have been made, but societal pressures and economic factors continue to hinder growth. As private schools struggle, there are calls to merge them with public institutions to enhance educational quality and support low-income students.
The story of Chung Hsing high school serves as a stark reminder of Taiwan’s demographic challenges and the need for innovative solutions to sustain the country’s future.