MINISTER for Sports Parveen Kumar believes the importance of sports in the life of a young person is invaluable and goes much further than the basic answer that it keeps children off the street.
Kumar was the chief guest at the opening of the Fiji Council of Special and Inclusive Educators National Games at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka yesterday.
The three-day event has attracted schools from as far as Labasa.
In his address, Kumar said sports and other physical activities could have many benefits for young people.
He said he was delighted to note that the inclusive sports program was adopted with the commitment of the organisers to bridge the gaps and ensure the participation of children with special needs.
He told the participants that by interacting with fellow citizens with special needs, it will give them encouragement and they will be motivated by seeing each other’s results.
“I feel that by ensuring accessibility and inclusivity in sports we are making the world a better place for everyone,” Kumar said.
“For a country like Fiji, sport is more than a passion. We cannot afford to leave a single Fijian when it comes to participation and enjoyment of sports.”
Tag rugby, athletics, netball, softball and football are some of the major sports which the students will participate in.
Kumar said sports played an important role in people’s life, especially in the modern-day and professional era as it was now a source of income and employment.
“Statistics from the Reserve Bank of Fiji showed that in 2016, sports contributed 1.7 per cent to our gross domestic product, placing it above fisheries and logging to name a few.
“Participating in physical activities and sports has been effective for reducing depression, anxiety, psychological distress and emotional disturbance.
“Sport is an agent for social change and will continue to be a major vehicle for youth development in Fiji as we continue to recognize its contribution to Fiji’s economy, national unity and social inclusion.
“It has a ripple effect on any nation or society boosting national pride, morale, discipline, productivity and health and wellness.”
