Establish Hsinchu City 'Sports Department,' says candidate Chuang Ching-cheng, to elevate sports governance

Chuang Ching-cheng, a candidate for mayor of Hsinchu City, Taiwan, has pledged to establish a dedicated "Sports Department" if elected, aiming to significantly enhance the city's sports governance. This proposal comes amid a growing public enthusiasm for sports and follows the central government's establishment of a Ministry of Sport.

Chuang argues that the current Sports and Health Section, which operates under the Education Department, is stretched too thin. This section is responsible for a wide array of duties, including public sports, school athletics, competitive sports training, nutrition, health, and environmental education. With a limited staff of approximately 18 individuals, including administrative and project personnel, Chuang believes the section cannot adequately foster the city's sports development.

"The Sports and Health Section, subordinate to the Education Department, not only handles public sports, school sports, and competitive sports training but also manages nutrition, health, and environmental education," Chuang stated. He emphasized that the limited manpower struggles to comprehensively promote the city's sports initiatives.

Drawing from his own experience as a student athlete in track and field, baseball, cycling, and volleyball, Chuang understands the critical role of sports in personal growth and urban development. He envisions Hsinchu not just as a technology hub but also as a healthy city where sports are integrated into daily life, aligning with national sports strategies. This vision includes fostering confidence and achievement in children through sports, beyond academics.

Echoing these sentiments, local councilor candidate Tseng Han-yang highlighted concerns from coaches, parents, and athletes regarding insufficient sports funding, limited training resources, and inadequate facilities. He stressed that citizens desire a specialized unit capable of integrating resources, nurturing talent, and improving the sports environment, making the establishment of a Sports Department a necessity.

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The Sports and Health Section, subordinate to the Education Department, not only handles public sports, school sports, and competitive sports training but also manages nutrition, health, and environmental education.