MoU signed with Abhinav Bindra Foundation to implement OVEP in schools
Shillong, Aug 19: In a major milestone towards transforming the state’s sports sector by involving young students, the state government on Tuesday signed an MoU with Abhinav Bindra Foundation to implement the Olympic Values Education Programme (OVEP) across schools in the state.
Developed by International Olympic Committee, OVEP uses the universal appeal of sport and Olympic ideals to engage students in life-skill development, character building, and holistic education.
In his address, chief minister Conrad K Sangma assured full government support to make OVEP a success. “We will strive to ensure that Meghalaya becomes a shining example of this programme’s implementation,” he said.
Underlining the potential of strong youth population, the chief minister said, “With over 50 per cent of our population below the age of 20, investing in our youth is crucial, and this programme represents a long-term investment in their future.”
He asserted that the agreement also aligns with the government’s youth-first policies, saying, “Olympic Values Education Programme complements our vision of investing in the youth and ensuring that they grow into responsible and productive citizens.”
Sangma also highlighted the fact that with Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra leading this initiative, the students will be motivated to embrace the values of excellence, friendship and respect.
“Sports is not just an activity — it is something that shapes us, instills discipline, hard work and responsibility and builds values that last a lifetime,” he said.
It is expected that rollout of OVEP in Meghalaya will benefit thousands of students across schools in the state.
In his address, Abhinav Bindra emphasised the transformative power of values-based education.
Following the MoU signing, a presentation was made by Abhinav Futuristics Private Limited on the proposal to establish a World-Class High Performance Sports Science and Injury Centre in Meghalaya.
The Centre will provide advanced training, rehabilitation, and sports science facilities, enabling athletes from the state to compete at national and international levels.
The MoU marks a milestone in Meghalaya’s mission to become a hub of educational excellence and sporting achievement, combining values-based education with world-class sports infrastructure.
Also present during signing of the MoU by Education and Sports & Youth Affairs departments with the Foundation were Dr Vijay Kumar D, commissioner & secretary, Sports & Youth Affairs; DD Shira, director, Sports & Youth Affairs; Banteilang Kharsandi, director, School Education & Literacy; and officials of Meghalaya Olympic Association among others.
