Kerala sets a model with Olympic-style State School Sports Meet: Governor

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala has set a model for others by hosting the State School Sports Meet in an Olympic- style format, said Governor Arif Mohammed Khan. He was speaking at the closing ceremony held at the University Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.

The Governor said Kerala’s school sports meet had opened a new path towards the Olympic dream for young children. “The Olympics should be our goal,” he remarked. “Sports were once seen as extracurricular, but now they are an essential part of the curriculum. Taking part in such a meet is itself equal to winning a medal.” He also reminded students that the true spirit of sport lies in embracing people from all walks of life.

Praising the scale and organisation of the event, the Governor thanked Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for instituting the Chief Minister’s Gold Cup for the overall champions. He also commended the State Government and General Education Minister V Sivankutty for conducting the meet in such a grand and efficient manner.

Thiruvananthapuram district emerged as the overall champions, lifting the Chief Minister’s Gold Cup with 1,825 points. Thrissur finished second with 892 points, while Kannur secured third with 859 points.

The eight-day event, held across 12 venues in the capital city, brought together nearly 20,000 students, showcasing Kerala’s excellence in planning, discipline, and sporting spirit. This year’s meet also witnessed 34 new records, including 17 in athletics, marking another milestone in the state’s sporting history.

Governor Khan said he was deeply touched by the government’s decision to provide 50 houses to economically disadvantaged athletes who won gold medals. “It is a noble and meaningful initiative,” he added.

General Education Minister V Sivankutty, who presided over the ceremony, said the department employs nearly 350 sportspersons and will explore ways to use their expertise to train and guide young athletes. He added that the travel allowance for students participating in the meet would be increased after discussions with the Finance Minister.

The minister also announced that students facing difficulties due to the lack of sports equipment would be provided with the necessary facilities. Funds for this initiative will be raised with the help of kind-hearted contributors under the supervision of the Director of General Education. He further urged the Centre to restore the railway ticket concession for students participating in sports events, adding that he would meet the Union Railway Minister to discuss the matter.

In the general category, Kadakassery Ideal EHSS, Malappuram, won the best school title, followed by Vadavannur VMHS, Palakkad, and Navamukunda HSS, Thirunavaya, Malappuram. In the sports school category, GV Raja Sports School, Thiruvananthapuram, emerged as champions, while Kollam SAI and Wayanad CHS shared second place, and Thalassery SAI and MA College Sports Hostel, Kothamangalam, shared third.

Ministers P A Mohammed Riyas, Veena George, and G R Anil, MLAs Antony Raju, V Joy, and Kadakampally Surendran, Mayor Arya Rajendran, Olympian P R Sreejesh, General Education Secretary V Vasuki, Director N S K Umesh, and C A Santhosh were also present at the ceremony.