Uni president who told graduates to 'end themselves' takes unpaid leave

Taipei, June 5 (CNA) Shih Hsin University President Chen Ching-ho (陳清河) said Friday that he will take a two-month unpaid leave of absence after telling graduating students to "end themselves" if life in the workforce became too taxing.

In a statement issued on social media, Chen said he had not been sufficiently careful in his remarks due to a tight schedule, adding that his comments were intended to encourage graduates to improve their life and workplace skills but were not clearly expressed.

On May 30, Chen shared his experience in self-management and career development at a commencement ceremony for master's and doctoral graduates.

He urged graduates to manage their time and emotions after entering the workforce, saying that those who fail to do so should "quickly end themselves" because "this world no longer needs your existence," comments that some interpreted as referring to suicide.

Apologizing for his "inappropriate speech," Chen said he had requested and been granted a two-month unpaid leave of absence effective June 8 and would reflect on the incident and exercise greater caution in future remarks.

Also on Friday, the Taipei-based university issued a separate statement apologizing for the incident and announcing that Vice President Lin Heng-chih (林恒志) will serve as acting president during Chen's absence.

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts in Taiwan, please call the 1925, 1995, or 1980 hotlines for help.