"Treating Hardship as Nourishment": Kaohsiung Student Wins National Skills Gold Medal

Li Songyan, a Hakka student from Kaohsiung Industrial High School, has achieved a significant victory by winning a gold medal in the "Piping and Heating" category at the 56th National Skills Competition's youth division. His success highlights a remarkable dedication to mastering new skills and a willingness to cross disciplinary boundaries.

Originally a competitor in "Electrical Assembly," Li Songyan transitioned to "Piping and Heating," integrating his foundational knowledge of electrical controls into plumbing systems. This cross-disciplinary approach, fueled by a tenacious Hakka spirit, allowed him to excel in a new field. His journey began in junior high school, where his talent was recognized, leading to further training and selection as a contestant for the 54th Youth Electrical Assembly competition, where he secured a silver medal nationally.

Upon entering Kaohsiung Industrial High School, Li initially considered continuing in electrical assembly. However, recognizing the need for programming skills he felt unprepared for, his teachers recommended the piping and heating track. He underwent rigorous training, traveling between locations for instruction from teachers at Kaohsiung Industrial High School and the Ministry of Labor's Gaoping Penghu Dong branch. Embracing the philosophy of "treating hardship as nourishment," Li persevered through challenges, including issues with copper pipe welding standards and precision during the national competition.

With guidance from senior students, teachers, and national gold medalist Lu Chenxun, Li refined his techniques. His hard work culminated in a gold medal at the 56th National Skills Competition, a testament to his perseverance and the collective support he received. President Lai Ching-te personally presented the award, celebrating Li's achievement.