New Taipei: Students at New Taipei Municipal Banqiao Senior High School (BSHS) expressed their opposition to the incoming principal, Liu Shu-fen, by hanging protest banners over the weekend. The demonstration coincided with the school’s anniversary celebration, as students voiced concerns about potential restrictions on their freedoms under Liu’s leadership.

According to Focus Taiwan, four banners were prominently displayed on the seventh floor of a school building. The messages included statements such as “No authoritarian principals for BSHS” and “Free spirits never die, work together to rebel.” The protest was directed at Liu Shu-fen, who is transitioning from Zhonghe Senior High School to BSHS this summer, amid student apprehension over her reputedly strict management style.

The students’ concerns are rooted in Liu’s past administrative practices, which allegedly included a ban on mobile phone use during class and limitations on student autonomy. On a Facebook fan page dedicated to student grievances at BSHS, some students posted images of flyers indicating plans to organize a forum to discuss strategies for opposing Liu’s policies.

Liu responded to local media outlet ETtoday, emphasizing that she is not a “female dictator” and expressing her willingness to engage in dialogue with students. She acknowledged their concern for school affairs but regretted the misunderstandings due to a lack of proper communication channels.

Some students and alumni have called for calm, noting that Liu has yet to implement any changes. However, the broader issue of mobile phone regulations in schools looms, as the Ministry of Education is advocating for tighter controls on student mobile device use across Taiwan.

The New Taipei Education Department acknowledged student involvement in public affairs and encouraged peaceful and rational expression of views. It affirmed Liu’s qualifications and noted her appointment followed a transparent selection process. The department also emphasized the importance of facilitating dialogue to address student concerns effectively.

Despite the protest banners, no student gatherings or disruptions were observed near the site, said the department, which oversees the operations of local high schools and lower-level institutions.