The Gautam Buddha University (GBU) in Noida has opened its campus sports complex to train and practice disabled athletes from the district. Twenty para-athletes from GB Nagar will now have the opportunity to train for the 2024 Paralympic Games at the facility. The university signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Association of Disabled People (ADP), an NGO that provides sports opportunities to disabled individuals, to utilize the sports complex.
The ADP will pay the university approximately Rs 1.5 lakh per year for the use of the facility. This collaboration will provide para-athletes with the necessary specialized equipment for training. Previously, the ADP had approached the Greater Noida Authority to secure space at the Shahid Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex for practice sessions. However, the Authority demanded a fee of over Rs 10 lakh per year, which the ADP could not afford.
The chairman of the sports council at GBU, Nagendra Singh, expressed his enthusiasm for contributing to society and promoting inclusivity and well-being. Furthermore, the ADP highlighted the absence of a synthetic athletic track in the Noida region, which hinders athletes’ practice. As a result, talented athletes are sent to the Nehru stadium in Delhi for training.
This collaboration between GBU and ADP is a significant step toward providing para-athletes with access to training facilities, equipment, and opportunities to prepare for the Paralympic Games. The university sports complex boasts various equipment that will now be available to para-athletes, ensuring they receive holistic support on their journey to success.
By opening its sports complex to disabled athletes, GBU is demonstrating its commitment to fostering an inclusive environment and supporting para-sports. This initiative not only benefits the local community but also plays a pivotal role in nurturing talent and enabling athletes to achieve their dreams. The joint efforts of GBU and ADP exemplify the power of collaboration and highlight the importance of providing opportunities for disabled individuals to excel in sports.
Moving forward, it is crucial to address the lack of a synthetic athletic track in the Noida region. By investing in such infrastructure, local authorities can create better training conditions for athletes, eliminating the need to travel long distances for practice sessions. This would undoubtedly elevate the region’s sporting landscape and encourage more individuals to engage in athletics.
In conclusion, the opening of GBU’s campus sports complex to disabled athletes for training and practice is a commendable initiative that will positively impact the para-sports community. This collaboration between GBU and ADP reaffirms the need to support individuals with special abilities and promote inclusivity. It is a step forward in creating a more accessible and inclusive sporting environment, empowering athletes to reach their full potential and represent their country in the Paralympic Games.
