Political adviser recommends bolstering on-campus sports

Thomas Jefferson Wu, a national political adviser from Hong Kong, suggested adding more sports coaches and referees to participate in on-campus physical education to provide high-quality sports education for students.

Wu, a member of the 13th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, made the proposal as the demand of students to participate in sports is increasing while the current campus sports teaching resources are weak.

With the implementation of the "double reduction" policy, which reduces students' extracurricular tutoring and homework burdens, students have more time to play sports, which is beneficial to promote the development of sports in campuses.

"There are more sports clubs and campuses are becoming more energetic. Students are more likely to get interested in sports and form the habit, which increases the demand for sports teachers," he said.

"Only by improving campus professional sports talent can we better implement the 'double reduction' policy and improve the physical fitness of teenagers," he added.

Wu said the participation of more coaches and referees in campus sports education can improve the competitive level of campus sports teams, but also train more sports industry talent.

Wu said when campus sports development reaches a certain level, related professionals such as dietitians and physical therapists can be introduced to improve students' physical training and sports rehabilitation.

Schools should identify and develop potential students to pursue professional sports careers and seek opportunities in sports industry, he said, adding parents should embrace the concept of letting students have careers in sports-related industries.

With the further development of campus sports, Wu also suggested setting up special funds for sports facilities and equipment in schools.