Sports meet for specially-abled kids at St Joseph’s

With the aim of celebrating the capabilities of specially-abled children and promoting their inclusivity in sports, St. Joseph’s Convent School took the initiative of organising an Inter-School Sports Meet for them on Saturday.

A total of seven schools from across the city participated in the meet, with around 100 specially-abled students competing in various events, including the 50m walk, 25m walk, wheelchair race, shot put, short ball throw, standing long jump and Baggo Board team event.

The young athletes displayed exceptional courage, enthusiasm and sportsmanship. The winners were felicitated with medals and certificates during the closing ceremony. The event was inaugurated by Vaneet Dhir, Mayor of Jalandhar, and Paramjit Singh Sachdeva, Area Director, Special Olympics Bharat, who graced the occasion as chief guests, along with the members of the school management committee.

The dignitaries were accorded a floral welcome and presented with badges as a mark of honour. The programme commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by Sister Archana, followed by the release of colourful balloons symbolising hope and joy. A graceful prayer dance was then performed by the students to invoke the Almighty’s blessings and set a serene tone for the day.

Speaking on the occasion, Dhir appreciated the efforts of the participants and emphasised that every child, regardless of ability, deserves opportunities to shine. He further added that such initiatives help foster confidence, equality and a sense of achievement among the specially-abled kids. He also appreciated the teachers who nurture and support these students in their schools.

The event concluded on an inspiring note, reminding everyone that true ability lies not in physical strength but in the courage and spirit to rise and perform against all odds, said special educator Rekha Kashyap.