Maulin Students Experience SUP for the First Time as Kaohsiung City Marine Bureau Brings Ocean Education to Remote Areas

To bridge the gap between mountain communities and the ocean, the Kaohsiung City Marine Bureau recently invited students and teachers from Maulin Junior High School to Aiguo Bay for a stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) experience. These students, who typically live in mountainous indigenous areas, learned basic techniques under professional coaching and successfully stood on SUP boards to paddle forward. Not only did they experience the charm of marine sports, but they also acquired essential water safety knowledge, creating unforgettable summer memories.

At first, the students appeared nervous about water activities, but with patient guidance from certified instructors, they quickly mastered balance and gradually gained confidence, freely paddling across the calm waters of Aiguo Bay. Their growing smiles reflected personal growth and the positive impact of ocean education.

Marine Bureau Director Shih Ching-Feng stated that Kaohsiung is blessed with abundant marine resources and emphasized the importance of diverse water-based activities in helping more citizens connect with the ocean. This year, the bureau has specially arranged dedicated experience sessions for remote schools, people with disabilities, and senior citizens, with professional instructors accompanying participants throughout to ensure safety and promote marine equity.

Shih highlighted that while promoting marine sports, water safety education remains a top priority. The bureau continues to implement safety programs through a 'training combined with experience' approach, teaching the public how to identify water risks, perform self-rescue, and apply basic lifesaving skills to foster responsible and safe water recreation habits.

This year, over 80 water experience events are planned, expected to attract more than 2,200 participants. The Marine Bureau will continue inviting schools and the public to Aiguo Bay, enabling hands-on ocean engagement and appreciation of Kaohsiung’s beautiful harbor, ultimately building a city that blends marine education with recreational opportunities.