How is Rai university leading the way in international sports education

Tḫe Sports University of Haryana, Rai, is making significant strides in implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and internationalising sports education. The university is providing students and faculty with access to global practices, advanced training methodologies and cross-cultural learning experiences. To foster the students’ ability at the international level, the Sports University regularly invites international experts from various fields here.

What is the purpose of organising international workshops?

Dr Yogesh Chander, Dean of Academics, who was recently appointed International Ambassador of International Organization for Health, Sports, and Kinesiology (IOHSK), USA (July 2025-2026), is driving such initiatives in the university and enhancing global recognition, fostering collaborations, joint research and academic exchanges. According to Dr Chander, the primary objective of organising such workshops is to familiarise students as well as the trainers with the latest trends in fitness techniques, strength training and body conditioning under the theme —‘Game-based approach in physical education’. As part of this initiative, an international-level workshop was conducted on October 12 and 15, featuring participation from Japanese experts.

What techniques did the Japanese experts share during the workshop?

The workshop featured sessions by Dr Naoki Suzuki, Associate Professor at Tokyo Gakugei University, currently working at Bridgewater University, Boston, USA. He was joined by representatives from the Japanese startup Alpha — Ikumi Mizukura and Kiriko Atsumi. Together, they delivered detailed sessions on various aspects of Japanese fitness methodology, physical balance, endurance and mental concentration. Participants also engaged in hands-on training, including Japanese stretching techniques, resistance training and mind-body coordination exercises during the workshop.

What did the students learn at the workshop?

Through this workshop, students gained valuable insights into the scientific and disciplined approach of Japanese fitness culture. A practical session was also conducted, which featured both live and video-based demonstrations of unique Japanese exercise techniques, along with comprehensive physical fitness assessments.

How can global collaboration help produce world-class educators, coaches & sportspersons?

Coordinating with institutions through expert visits by international professionals provides students and faculty with exposure to advanced training methods, global research standards and diverse learning experiences. Recently, Dr Tim Dornemann (University of Northern Colorado) and Craig M Schinck (USA), along with Karen Richardson (Bridgewater University) and Heidi Bohler (Westfield State University), shared insights on digital fitness assessment, data-driven training and performance optimisation, fostering technical expertise, critical thinking, teamwork and cultural awareness among students and faculty.

What next?

Ashok Kumar, Vice-Chancellor, said combining international expertise with local talent development will strengthen teaching, research and applied training. Advanced biomechanics, digital fitness assessment, sports analytics, injury prevention, mental wellness, AI-driven training and holistic well-being programmes will maintain the university’s leadership in sports education and coaching. The university follows a three-step model — Teaching & learning enhancement: Strengthening pedag\ogy through global best practices; Knowledge & research development: Establishing advanced research labs and collaborative projects; and Application & training: Applying research into practical sports performance and coaching excellence. This approach ensures students are educated and empowered to become innovators and globally competent professionals in sports sciences, the Vice-Chancellor added.