The school games competitions were organised at five Government Schools under a novel initiative ‘Project Champion’ of Hyderabad Runners Society to provide Government School kids with 30-40 minutes of exercises and games where there are no physical training teachers available, to promote movement and active lifestyles on Monday. The society also awarded medals and certificates awarded at MGN Primary, NBT Primary, NBT High School, Shaikpet Primary School, Shaikpet High School.
Hyderabad Runners Society launched the Project Champion initiative in five government Schools in Shaikpet Mandal in October 2023, in collaboration with Kriti Social Initiatives and it benefitted 2800 children.
Planning for school sports involves selecting suitable sports according to the curriculum, organising game schedules, team selection processes, rules, logistics, equipment, referees/volunteers, first aid supplies, hydration, and other essential resources. Hyderabad Runners Society has made a beginning in all these aspects as part of the Outreach Program.
Physical Education teachers, appointed by Hyderabad Runners, diligently trained the children for over 100 days. Abhijeet, Ram from Hyderabad Runners Society, and the respective HMs inaugurated the Project Champion School Games. Abhijeet, Arun Kumar, and Raghu from Hyderabad Runners Society, alongside the respective HM of the schools, presented medals and certificates to the 732 honoured children.
According to the Headmaster of various schools and physical trainers associated with the project, it is a great success. The project focused on engaging children in sports, games, and physical activities, enhancing their relationship with exercise.
Notably, there has been an increase in student attendance and punctuality since the implementation of Project Champion. The involvement in sporting activities like Physical Education classes has motivated children to attend school regularly, blending education with sports and instilling values of citizenship in the classroom.
The initiative have brought students closer, fostering a sense of community and support among the children, transcending mere athletic competition. The collaborative spirit exhibited by school staff, teachers, and students during the school games highlights teamwork, camaraderie, and mutual encouragement for each other’s accomplishments.
Hyderabad Runners Society said, “These competitions were just conducted in the respective schools or nearby playgrounds, involving 1363 children. Out of the total 1363 participants, 732 children emerged victorious in various events and were honored with medals and certificates, while also enjoying refreshments.