The Department of Sports that is gearing up to organise summer camp for both Government and non-Government students from May 21, so far has received only 150 registration forms from across the State.
“In spite of so much publicity about the summer camp being organised for the first time in State, the registration results are not so encouraging. Though we have started the awareness drive and taking help from NGOs, we have been successful in enrolling 150 students only so far,” said Under Secretary, Department of Sports, Ved Ratan Mohan.
District Education Officer Shivendra Kumar, who has given the charge to encourage the students of Government schools to participate in summer camp, cited constrains like unavailability of teachers during vacation period and ferrying students from far off places.
“We have received approximately 500 application forms from the Department of Sports. I am personally monitoring this project and have instructed the Block Education Officers (BEOs) to distribute at each Government school. We were informed about the event a few days back,” said Kumar.
However, the Government officials at department of Sports have said that they are expecting enrollment somewhere across 300 and above in the days to come. As the State Government is in the last lap of preparation, all arrangements like roping in coaches, involving association heads, besides, decking up the mega sports complex with all facilities have been ensured at the venue. The summer camp activities have been scheduled from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM at Astro Turf Stadium, Morabadi.
“So far, out of 150 students who have registered themselves for the event, 100 children are from Government schools. Here, the private school students’ turnout is very less. We are also trying to contact private school principals to encourage students to participate in this fun-filled summer camp students,” added Mohan.
When contacted to know the version of private school principals on sending their students to participate in summer camp being organised by the State Government for the first time, maximum schools principals claimed that it depends upon the students and guardians’ will.
“During vacation period most of the students go on a holiday, hence it becomes difficult to contact each one of them separately. Some students do attend the summer camps that are organised by any private organisation, it is an individual choice. We have received the information but cannot compel students to participate in this,” said Principal, Surendra Nath Centenary School, Samita Sinha.
With nine indoor games Chess, Table Tennis, Wushu (Martial Art), Carom, Volleyball, Kabbadi, Karate, Fencing game and Yoga, the first ever mega summer camp will be initiated from May 21 and will continue till June 15.