This week's five major headlines include:
The new tiered driver's license renewal system for senior drivers launching in May, with integrated service points in Miaoli North for easier access;
Application for the Unemployed Workers' Children Education Subsidy open until March 22, with increased funding and removal of income restrictions;
The “Love Your Teeth” campus program strengthening oral health education, integrating generative AI into innovative teaching;
The 2026 Taiwan Lantern Festival in Chiayi, with Taiwan High Speed Rail adding 38 extra services in March to accommodate visitors;
And the Hualien Pacific Lantern Festival running through March 8, lighting up the night with fireworks, light installations and AR experiences.

Let's take a closer look at this week's top stories.

1. New Senior Driver License Renewal System Launching in May
The Ministry of Transportation plans to introduce a tiered care system for senior driver license renewal in May to enhance road safety.
Drivers aged 70 who complete a health check, training session and hazard perception test may extend their license validity to age 75. Drivers aged 75 and above must renew every three years and complete a cognitive assessment.
In northern Miaoli, services have been consolidated at the Zhunan Shangdehui location, open every Thursday. Seniors are reminded to prepare required documents, health examination certificates and photos in advance.

2. Education Subsidy for Children of Unemployed Workers Open Until March 22
Applications for the second semester of the 2025 academic year education subsidy for children of involuntarily unemployed workers are open until March 22.
Subsidy amounts have increased: up to NT$26,000 per semester for private universities and NT$15,000 for public universities; up to NT$6,000 for senior high schools and vocational schools. Families with sole breadwinners or two or more children in college may receive an additional 20%.
Applicants may apply online using a Citizen Digital Certificate and may not receive overlapping government tuition subsidies.

3. “Love Your Teeth” Program Expands in Schools
The K-12 Education Administration continues promoting the “Love Your Teeth” campus service program. This year, ten schools were selected to host teacher workshops and parent seminars to strengthen oral hygiene practices, fluoride toothpaste use and reduced sugar intake awareness.
Professional teams provide on-campus guidance, and generative AI tools are incorporated to help teachers develop innovative lesson plans, integrating oral health into daily learning.

4. THSR Adds 38 Services for Chiayi Lantern Festival
The 2026 Taiwan Lantern Festival is underway in Chiayi. Taiwan High Speed Rail is adding 38 train services from March 3 to March 15, including additional evening capacity.
Chiayi Station has implemented passenger flow control measures. Travelers are advised to book tickets early and allow extra transfer time to ensure a smooth trip.

5. Hualien Pacific Lantern Festival Runs Through March 8
The Hualien Pacific Lantern Festival continues through March 8, illuminated nightly from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The main lantern features synchronized music and light effects, along with AR interactive experiences that allow visitors to see virtual galloping horses through their smartphones. The exhibition stretches from Sunrise Avenue to Triangle Park, blending local creativity with artistic installations.

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