Adec to train the ‘champions of tomorrow’

Government puts its weight behind scheme to find future sporting stars.

Dr Amal Al Qubaisi, director general of Adec, wants to see some of these young gymnasts reach the top of the podium and says the sporting initiative unveiled on Sunday has ‘social and educational dimeShow more

ABU DHABI // A sporting initiative has been backed by the Government in a bid to get home-grown talent to the top of the podium.

Abu Dhabi Education Council unveiled its “Champions of Tomorrow” campaign on Sunday at the Abu Dhabi Country Club, to offer a glimpse into the Government’s plans to produce high-performing athletes who will be able to compete among the world’s best.

The plans aim to transform schools into sport-friendly environments and build a new generation of talent.

As part of the initiative, competitions and sports tournaments will be held throughout the academic year for 4th to 12th grade Emirati and expatriate students.

Included will be mandatory games such as football and athletics and supplementary activities like fencing or handball can also be added to the programme.

Dr Amal Al Qubaisi, Adec’s director general, believes the initiative has “social and educational dimensions” with the potential to strengthen the bonds that exist between schools, students, their parents, and broader society.

“Sport is one of the most important pillars,” she said.

“We believe that sport in our schools is part of our children and citizens’ lifestyles.”

This year about 84,000 children are expected to benefit from the initiative, which kicks off with nine games, with more to be added next year.

Dr Al Qubaisi also announced details of the Adec Marathon, to be held on February 26 at Yas Marina Circuit with 3,000 students, and a Sports Day, described as a “first-of-its-kind” event where 140,000 pupils, parents, and teachers will take part together in different events.

“This is like a pyramid,” said Nasser Khamis, Adecs’s extra-curricular activities section manager.

“It is an initiative to help more people participate in sports,” he said.

Private school and special-needs students will be added into the fold next year, Mr Khamis said.

It is hoped the initiative will contribute to government efforts in promoting Abu Dhabi and the UAE’s stature in athletics internationally by producing exceptional, Olympic-calibre, athletic talent “to raise the UAE flag”.

“You are the present and future of the UAE … the Champions of Tomorrow,” Dr Al Qubaisi said.