Legislative Education Committee Inspects Taichung Esports Facilities; Li Yang Announces Budget Increase

According to Central News Agency, the Legislative Yuan's Education and Culture Committee conducted an inspection today at Hungkuang University's esports venue in Taichung. Sports Minister Li Yang stated that visiting the front lines allows for a better understanding of school esports infrastructure, and announced that next year's esports budget will increase from NT$4 million to NT$30 million.

KMT legislator Lo Ting-wei, convener of the committee, invited officials from the Sports Administration, Ministry of Education, and other relevant agencies to assess the university's esports facility development, talent cultivation, and industry-academia collaboration. Legislative Yuan Vice President Chiang Chieh-chien, Taiwan People's Party legislator Tsai Chun-tsou, and Li Yang attended the event and listened to a briefing by Huang Chien-chi, Executive Director of Hungkuang University's International Esports Industry Center. Li Yang and Lo Ting-wei even participated in a friendly match of 'League of Legends.'

Chiang Chieh-chien emphasized that esports has become an international competitive event, featuring cross-disciplinary integration, intergenerational participation, and potential for medal wins in global competitions. With coordinated efforts between central and local governments, the economic impact of esports events—spanning media, broadcasting, and audience engagement—can be significantly expanded. He noted that Taichung, already promoting baseball, basketball, and an international soccer park, could further develop into a comprehensive sports city through event-driven growth.

Li Yang highlighted the importance of firsthand observation to identify current challenges in school esports facilities, stating that the Sports Administration will continue improving support systems. He mentioned Taiwan's participation in esports at the upcoming Nagoya Asian Games and stressed the need for a stable, long-term training framework for esports athletes—a key direction for the ministry.

Li Yang revealed that the esports budget, previously around NT$4 million, will rise to NT$30 million next year, signaling strong governmental support. He also shared that he played 'League of Legends' with Lo Ting-wei, symbolizing their joint commitment to advancing the esports industry.

Lo Ting-wei noted that the Sports Administration may include supportive measures in the upcoming esports white paper or revisions to the Sports Industry Act by year-end. He advocated for better career pathways and greater visibility for esports professionals, ensuring more opportunities for recognition and development. (Edited by Chang Ming-kun)