Shillong, August 19: The Government of Meghalaya today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Abhinav Bindra Foundation to implement the Olympic Values Education Programme (OVEP) across schools in the state. The MoU was signed between the Department of Education, the Department of Sports & Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya and the Foundation at a ceremony held in the Cabinet Room, Main Secretariat, Shillong graced by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, in the presence of Olympic Gold Medallist and Founder of the Abhinav Bindra Foundation, Abhinav Bindra. Also present were Dr Vijay Kumar D, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, Sports & Youth Affairs; D D Shira, Director, Sports & Youth Affairs; Banteilang Kharsandi, Director, School Education & Literacy; officials of the Meghalaya Olympic Association and others.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the programme aligns perfectly with the government’s youth-first policies. “Sports is not just an activity, it is something that shapes us, instills discipline, hard work and responsibility and builds values that last a lifetime. The Olympic Values Education Programme complements our vision of investing in the youth and ensuring that they grow into responsible and productive citizens. With Abhinav Bindra leading this initiative, our students will be motivated to embrace the values of excellence, friendship and respect,” he said.
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The Chief Minister then assured full government support to make OVEP a success, adding, “We will strive to ensure that Meghalaya becomes a shining example of this programme’s implementation. With over 50 percent of our population below the age of 20, investing in our youth is crucial, and this programme represents a long-term investment in their future.”
Olympic champion Abhinav Bindra, in his address, emphasized the transformative power of values-based education.
Developed by the International Olympic Committee, OVEP uses the universal appeal of sport and Olympic ideals to engage students in life-skill development, character building, and holistic education. Its rollout in Meghalaya will benefit thousands of students across schools in the state.
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Following the MoU signing, a presentation was made by Abhinav Futuristics Private Limited on the proposal to establish a World-Class High Performance Sports Science and Injury Centre in Meghalaya. The Centre will provide advanced training, rehabilitation, and sports science facilities, enabling athletes from the state to compete at national and international levels.
The MoU marks a milestone in Meghalaya’s mission to become a hub of educational excellence and sporting achievement, combining values-based education with world-class sports infrastructure.
(Newmai News Network)