Governor Advocates for Sports as Essential in Education at National Workshop
Importance of Sports in Education Highlighted
Tiruchirappalli (Tamil Nadu) [India], September 12: The Governor of Tamil Nadu and Keralam, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, emphasized that sports should be viewed as a fundamental aspect of education rather than just an extracurricular activity. He made these remarks during the inauguration of a national workshop titled “NEP 2020 – Redefining Sports and Physical Education in Higher Education” at the National College (Autonomous) in Karumandapam, Tiruchirappalli.
Rtn. AKS Er Murugananandam M (MMM), who serves as the Vice President of Rotary International for 2026-27 and is also the President of the Physical Education Foundation of India (PEFI) for the Tamil Nadu Chapter, was present as the Guest of Honour.
The workshop saw participation from academicians, experts in physical education, sports professionals, and representatives from various higher education institutions.
Governor Arlekar welcomed the initiative, noting that while educational institutions often focus on academic seminars, this workshop rightly emphasizes the significance of physical education and sports in higher learning.
He pointed out that involvement in sports should not solely revolve around winning medals. “Winning is secondary; every student should engage in sports,” he stated, as per a release from the Governor's office.
Addressing the increasing reliance on mobile devices, he remarked that education should extend beyond traditional classroom settings. “Sports is not merely an extracurricular activity; it is a vital component of our education,” he urged, calling on parents and educational institutions to encourage children to participate in outdoor activities regularly.
The Governor also noted that the sports sector is evolving with technology, mentioning the adoption of rubber mats in Kabaddi instead of conventional mud grounds.
Discussing the potential of Gen-Z youth, he acknowledged their talent and energy, emphasizing the need to direct this energy positively. “Gen-Z youngsters have immense talent, but their energy must be guided appropriately by parents and educational institutions,” he remarked.
The workshop aims to explore the role of sports and physical education in fostering holistic student development and integrating these elements into higher education in line with NEP 2020.
Governor Arlekar commended the organizers for the workshop and assured them of support from Lok Bhavan.
Upon his arrival at the National College, he received a ceremonial welcome from the National Cadet Corps (NCC), with students presenting a parade salute.