Cheng Shiu University’s (CSU) Special Education Resource Center Dragon Boat Team won second place at the 2026 Kaohsiung Dragon Boat Festival and Championship. Demonstrating perseverance and teamwork, the students donated part of their prize money through CSU’s Dream Fulfillment Program to replace an aging electric water heater for an older resident living alone in a nearby community. Their initiative transformed sporting achievement into meaningful social action, reflecting CSU’s commitment to holistic education, social responsibility, and sustainability.

President Kung Jui-Chang noted that the team’s progress from third place last year to second place this year represents more than improved athletic performance. It demonstrates the students’ personal growth and CSU’s sustained efforts to advance diversity, inclusion, and life education.

Professional Training Builds Resilience and Inclusion

CSU formed its first special education dragon boat team in 2025 and earned third place in its inaugural competition. The team advanced to second place this year.

Supported by professional coaches from the Department of Recreation and Sports Management and faculty from the Special Education Resource Center, students trained systematically using rowing machines, ski ergometers, and CSU’s technology-enhanced rowing simulation facilities. They also practiced regularly at Lotus Pond, combining on-campus and water-based training to strengthen technique, fitness, and teamwork.

The training enhanced not only paddling skills but also confidence, communication, and mutual support. Many previously reserved students overcame personal barriers and became more willing to express themselves and embrace challenges, demonstrating special education’s emphasis on individual growth and self-realization.

Transforming Sporting Achievement into Social Impact

Beyond winning second place, the students chose to combine part of their prize money with CSU’s Dream Fulfillment Program to replace an aging electric water heater for an older community resident living alone.

The students hoped to share the joy of their achievement with people in need, turning personal success into an opportunity to give back. Their decision transformed the competition into a meaningful experience in service learning, life education, and community engagement.

Holistic Education Develops Sustainability Changemakers

Dean of Student Affairs Lin Shu-Yun described the competition as both an athletic challenge and a valuable life education experience. Through training, competition, and community service, students learned perseverance, teamwork, gratitude, and generosity while demonstrating the positive contributions of students with special educational needs.

Special Education Resource Center Director Wu Ping-Wei stated that the Center will continue integrating physical education, service learning, and life education to create diverse learning opportunities, support students in pursuing their goals, and extend care throughout the community.

Building an Inclusive Campus through Sustainability Education

Guided by holistic education, social responsibility, and sustainable development, CSU integrates interdisciplinary learning, sports, service learning, and community action to cultivate graduates with professional competencies, compassion, and civic responsibility.

From winning a medal to supporting a community resident, the dragon boat team demonstrated resilience, teamwork, and social commitment. Their actions extended the impact of education beyond campus and advanced CSU’s vision of an inclusive, caring, and sustainable university.

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