UAE School Games Set For Thrilling Finale At Expo City Dubai On May 18
The UAE School Games are set for an exciting finale on May 18 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) in Expo City Dubai. The event will feature top athletes from various school contingents competing for podium places. Organised under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and President of the UAE National Olympic Committee, the finals will be attended by Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Education, Chairman of the General Authority of Sports, and President of the UAE School and University Sports Federation.
The UAE School and Sports Federation is organising the event in collaboration with the General Authority of Sports (GAS), various sports federations, and federal and local authorities. Sponsored by Etisalat e&, the tournament features 2,500 students from 350 schools across the country competing in ten disciplines: football, athletics, swimming, shooting, archery, badminton, fencing, judo, taekwondo, and jiu-jitsu.
Senior officials from both the sports and educational sectors are expected to attend the finals of the UAE School Games 2024. Dr. Al Falasi commented on the event's significance: "The UAE School Games aim to enhance the sporting culture among our students and inspire a competitive environment that enables us to discover and develop promising talents with the goal of shaping Emirati champions who can represent the UAE on the international stage."
He added that a strong foundation in sports at the school level is crucial for achieving greater success at international levels and aligns with the objectives of the National Sports Strategy 2031. The first official edition of the School Games reflects leadership’s commitment to instilling a sporting culture and professionalism in young minds.
Beyond intense sporting matchups, the event schedule ensures a lively atmosphere for families and friends. A dedicated fan zone will offer live and e-games suitable for all age groups, exciting rewards, and food carts catering to different tastes. The event aims to deliver an outstanding experience for all attendees throughout the competitions.
The School Games are committed to broadening sports within schools and fostering a competitive culture aimed at identifying and nurturing young talent early. The ultimate goal is to discover Emirati champions who can represent the UAE globally, including at the Olympic Games. This effort aligns with the National Sports Strategy 2031's goals.
Organised across three levels for students aged 13 to 17, the School Games begin with specialised training programmes tailored for students interested in various sports disciplines. Regional competitions follow in each emirate, culminating in national-level competitions where participants compete at the highest level.
The Games promote active involvement in sports among school students across the UAE from an early age. This initiative involves a concerted effort by the UAE School and University Sports Federation, educational institutions, and various sports bodies under GAS oversight. The aim is to boost wider participation in sports, foster budding Emirati athletes' development, and strengthen the nation’s presence on regional, continental, and global stages.
With inputs from WAM
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