The physical education of Tamkang University was recognized as the top level private university in a recent MOE’s physical education evaluation on local universities. This is another award and recognition of TKU’s devotion to sports education after the school has previously won Physical Education Award.

In response to the MOE recognition, head of the Office of Physical Education Hsiao Shu-fen attributed the honor to the abundant physical education resources and facilities of the university. Hsiao noted that in recent years the MOE has promoted physical education in schools in various levels. The MOE stipulates that each university should have at least two obligatory courses and one optional course on physical education for students. TKU is offering three obligatory courses and one optional course on physical education, Hsiao noted. Moreover, TKU has many latest sports facilities such as the Shao-mo Memorial Natatorium Complex and weight training room. The university also actively engages in promoting sports events. All of these efforts have made TKU a perfect place for physical education and a best candidate for the MOE evaluation.

Hsiao added that the TKU has launched its promotion on PE since the 2006 school year which is labeled as the “Sports Year” then by offering a variety of PE classes for students, teachers, and even staffs as well. Starting from the school year 2011, the 25 meters swim will be a required credit for graduation, hoping that the TKU freshmen will be able to make use of the natatorium more often and learn the beauty of swimming under the lead of their teachers.

In response to the promotion of sports in TKU, a student the College of Science Chen Chun-yen said he is looking forward to PE lessons as he will be able to make new friends who love sports just like him. Chung Ping-hsuan, a senior in Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, said he still has PE classes even though he is in his senior year. He said that having PE classes will remind him to keep working out. However, he also noted that some of his classes will run into the same time with his other prescribed classes, an issue he hopes the school authority would look into. Hsiao said the school will do its best in arranging class schedules. Meanwhile, Hsiao also noted that in the future, there will be no division of male and female PE classes and the course will be taught in coeducation style as in other courses. “We hope the move will be able to better unite a class for the upcoming TKU 60 anniversary,” Hsiao said. ( ~Yeh Yun-kai )