The “Football for Schools (F4S)” programme was held to empower youth and instill discipline in school students through football at JNV School in Rymbai in East Jaintia Hills district on Friday. The event included the distribution of FIFA footballs to 29 schools in East Jaintia Hills District. Organized under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, FIFA for Schools, and the All India Football Federation (AIFF), the programme featured a lamp-lighting ceremony, a traditional dance, a speech by a student who achieved success through football, a friendly match between JNV Rymbai and other schools, and the distribution of 112 footballs to the participating schools. Attendees included JNV School Rymbai Principal Dr. Raj Kumar, DSEO R.K. Diengdoh, Deibor Syad (MLA representative), teachers, students, and staff from various schools.
In his address, DSEO East Jaiñtia Hills District R.K. Diengdoh called the initiative a testament to sports’ role in shaping young minds and fostering development. “Football teaches vital life skills like teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. This programme will inspire students to embrace football, pursue their passion for sports, and seize opportunities to become stars,” Diengdoh said. Principal Dr. Raj Kumar noted that this is a Government of India initiative by the Ministry of Education. He expressed hope that it would equip students with essential qualities, nurture their patience for the game, and promote physical fitness, discipline, and unity. “Football teaches resilience and collaboration,” he added.
