The School of Lifelong Education at Yuan Ze University, in collaboration with the Han-Ru Cultural and Educational Foundation and the Hua-Ru Youth Care Foundation, recently hosted a session of the Han-Ru Academy “Yuan Ze Classical Culture Lecture Series.” The event featured former Deputy Minister Wen-Tsan Lin as the keynote speaker, who delivered a lecture titled “The Opening, Development, Turning, and Conclusion of a Civil Service Career.” Drawing on decades of public service experience, Lin shared his profound reflections on institutional wisdom and personal growth.

Lin remarked that his career resembled a well-written essay, progressing naturally through its stages—introduction, development, transition, and conclusion. It was not merely a professional journey but also a lifelong practice of self-cultivation and public service. He emphasized that the true value of career civil servants did not lie in power or titles, but rather in “doing what is right and following the natural course,” quietly contributing to society behind the scenes. Quoting philosopher Nan Huai-Chin, he said, “Doing good deeds without seeking recognition is the essence of virtue.”

He explained that the core mission of career civil servants was to “accomplish tasks through cooperation and create the greatest happiness for the people.” This principle, he noted, reflected not only administrative efficiency but also a long-term commitment to public well-being. Citing his own experiences—such as introducing performance-based pay in public hospitals, ensuring rational pension fund contributions during pension reform, and designing dual-track systems for irrigation associations—Lin illustrated how professional civil servants played three critical roles in policymaking: providing expert advice, maximizing policy effectiveness, and minimizing political controversy.

“Career civil servants are the Great Wall of the nation,” Lin asserted. Compared to politically appointed officials who change with administrations, career civil servants ensured continuity and stability within the system. He cited Singapore as a prime example, where collaboration between highly qualified civil servants and political leaders enabled smooth governance unaffected by political fluctuations.

Discussing professional development, Lin referred to the “10,000-hour rule,” stressing the importance of continuous learning and deliberate practice. He noted that civil servants must distinguish between “holding a title” and “being competent,” arguing that only professionalism and integrity could earn genuine respect and trust within the system. He also advised that at different career stages, one should develop corresponding abilities: junior officers should focus on technical expertise, while supervisors should support team growth. “When a subordinate’s proposal has a 60% chance of success,” he said, “you should back it—this not only prevents mistakes but also boosts morale.”

Although his career was not without challenges, Lin stressed that maintaining a calm mindset was key to overcoming adversity, saying, “When God closes a door, He opens a window.” He shared that despite not relying on social connections, his professionalism alone enabled him to rise to the position of Deputy Minister, proving that “expertise is the foundation of success.”