DIMAPUR — St. Joseph University (SJU) held its fresher induction for undergraduate students, along with the inaugural function of the Bachelor of Physical Education (BPES) programme, on Wednesday at the SJU auditorium, Chümoukedima.
The special guest for the occasion, Abu Metha, Advisor to the Chief Minister and Ambassador of St. Joseph Palliative Care, Nagaland, stated that SJU is the first educational institute in Nagaland to incorporate a course in physical education. He noted that this is an important day not only for the institute but for Nagaland as a whole.
According to a DIPR report, he said that this new venture will create many stories, not just for Nagaland but for the nation in the generations to come. He thanked the Bishop of Kohima for his tireless efforts in introducing this course, noting that his contributions and initiatives benefit not just the institute but the entire state.
He congratulated the students and urged them to seize this opportunity to enhance their knowledge, advising them to absorb everything they encounter like a sponge.
Speaking about sports, he mentioned that the international sports industry is valued at 500 billion USD, while the Indian sports industry is projected to reach 100 billion USD by 2027. He highlighted that India is one of the richest sports markets in the world and a rising superpower in the field.
According to him, the scope and dynamics of the sports industry are unlimited and infinite, requiring specialists in numerous fields. It is not just about becoming an athlete or a coach; sports encompasses a variety of professional areas such as media and broadcasting, sports administration, event management, personality management, and many other opportunities.
He said that if Nagaland is to become a hub for sports and youth, it will be the first batch of graduates from this course who will lay the foundation for that ambition. He noted that today Nagaland aspires to make its presence felt not only at the national level but also internationally.
He assured the full support of the chief minister, expressing confidence that the course will succeed not only in sports education but also in other areas.
Encouraging youngsters across Nagaland, he urged them to embrace courage and bravery, emphasising that success is attainable by anyone, regardless of their background or location.
He added that each one should carry ambition and act as an ambassador not only for the university but also for Nagaland, helping the state rise and contribute to India's growth and nation-building process.