By Eryk Michael Smith/Info and images via Pingtung County Govt.
PINGTUNG — Kenting Elementary School (墾丁國小) in Hengchun Township (恆春鎮) broke ground early last week on a new campus, which will replace the aging school buildings affected by years of salt air and strong winds.
The southernmost elementary school on Taiwan’s main island, the campus is a familiar landmark to those who frequently visit Kenting National Park (墾丁國家公園). Inspections found its main buildings, constructed between 1985 and 1988, had structural deterioration, including cracked beams and exposed rebar due to exposure to coastal conditions. Earthquakes and typhoons also took their toll, and seismic assessments determined that the structures no longer met safety standards.
The rebuilt school will feature a two-story campus with 21 classrooms, including kindergarten and elementary facilities, administrative offices, specialty classrooms, and a library. Construction is expected to take about 700 calendar days, with completion targeted for February 2028.
Pingtung County Magistrate Chou Chun-mi (周春米) said the project is part of a broader school renewal program that has supported 10 campus rebuilds between 2020 and 2025. She also said there are additional projects planned. Total funding for the Kenting Elementary School project is around NT$250 million, with the funds coming from a combination of central government subsidies and local funding.
Design plans incorporate local features of the Hengchun Peninsula (恆春半島), drawing on elements such as Dajianshan (大尖山), Frog Rock (青蛙石), coastal bays, and ocean waves. The campus will also include design features to address strong seasonal winds and sun exposure, including windbreak structures, shading, and improved ventilation.
