Here are this week's five major headlines:
Changes in student numbers among children of new immigrants,
a health reminder on eating smart during cold weather,
new mental health guidelines after major incidents,
New Taipei's cross-river fireworks lighting up the night to welcome 2026,
and upgraded protection under the new publicly funded vaccine policy.
Let's take a look.
First, fewer students overall, but more new immigrant children entering college.
The Ministry of Education says the total number of students from new immigrant families keeps going down - nearly 50,000 fewer over the past five years.
But there's a different story at the college level. More of these students are choosing to continue their studies.
Over 70 percent live in Taiwan's six major cities, with New Taipei City topping the list.
Most come from families originally from mainland China, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
The ministry says it's expanding language programs and online learning to better support these students.
Second, winter supplements are fine - but don't overdo it.
As the weather gets colder, many people turn to hot pots and warming dishes.
But health officials remind us that eating more doesn't mean eating better.
Popular dishes like sesame oil chicken or ginger duck are often high in oil and salt.
The advice is simple: choose natural ingredients, go lighter on seasoning, and add more vegetables and fruit.
The key is moderation - that's how you stay healthy.
Third, feeling anxious after major incidents is normal.
After a recent random attack shocked the public, psychologists in northern Taiwan shared mental health guidelines.
They say feeling anxious, having trouble sleeping, or not wanting to go out are common reactions.
People are encouraged to acknowledge their feelings, limit exposure to violent images, and avoid sharing unverified information.
Sometimes, just asking “Are you okay?” can really help.
And if the stress doesn't ease, support is available through the 1925 hotline.
Fourth, New Taipei's cross-river fireworks welcome 2026.
The “Shining New Taipei” fireworks show lights up the sky tonight on New Year's Eve.
The display stretches across the Tamsui River and the new bridge, lasting more than 13 minutes - the longest ever.
Finally, new publicly funded vaccine policies bring stronger protection.
Starting next year, the CDC is rolling out three major updates, including an upgraded pneumonia vaccine.
People aged 65 and older, Indigenous groups, and those at higher risk will only need one dose.
Long-term care residents will also get enhanced flu shots.
Health officials stress that vaccination is still the best way to prevent serious illness - and they encourage everyone who's eligible to get vaccinated.
Thank you for watching This Week's Top News.
This is New Immigrant Global News Network, keeping you informed, connected to Taiwan, and linked to the world.
