Football Training to Get NEP Boost in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: School students in Odisha may soon receive structured football training as part of their regular education, a move expected to significantly benefit them physically, mentally and socially. Under the National Education Policy (NEP), football is likely to receive greater emphasis in the school curriculum.

A discussion on promoting football across schools in Odisha was held today, with key leaders and sports officials in attendance. Among those present were All India Football Federation (AIFF) President Kalyan Chaubey, Sports and Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond, and MLAs Jaynarayan Mishra and Tankadhar Tripathy. The primary focus of the meeting was integrating football into the NEP framework to strengthen sports culture at the school level.

Experts highlighted that football plays a vital role in keeping children physically fit while also improving alertness, concentration, quick decision-making and strategic thinking. The sport also helps inculcate teamwork, discipline, punctuality and leadership qualities among young players.

Officials emphasised that these qualities not only build mental strength but also boost students’ self-confidence, contributing to their overall development.