Page 65 - Sportability

for individuals with disabilities, providing a platform to programmes can only be effective if all participants
showcase their abilities. receive equal opportunities and training.

This experience made me realise the need for training Inclusive sports and positive social change
participants selected from districts and state level Inclusive sports programme not only help persons
competitions. Often, participants are sent directly with disabilities in developing a positive outlook but
to national competitions without adequate practice, also create a sense of acceptance for them in society.
impacting their performance. Such incidents can Society’s acceptance of sports for persons with
diminish the prestige of the sport, so it’s essential to disabilities is growing, and efforts are being made to
ensure proper training and selection procedures for understand their abilities. Atheltes in events like the
players with disabilities. Paralympics and other national level competitions are
showcasing their talents, helping society realise that
Inclusive Sports Programmes for children being differently abled does not limit anyone’s potential.
with disabilities in school
In 2019, I started working as ateacher in a school In recent years, inclusive sports programme have
with special educators for students with disabilities. been organised in various schools and colleges,
Since the implementation of the Rights of Persons where differently abled persons are making a name
with Disabilities Act, 2016, the opportunities for such for themselves. Such events offer them a respectful
students have increased in Delhi schools. I observed that position in society, assuring them of their equal rights
participation in these sports programmes boosts the with other members of society.
confidence of children with disabilities and enhances
their connection with classmates. For instance, one Conclusion
student with an intellectual disability began interacting Ultimately, inclusive sports rogrammes serve as a means
more with his classmates after participating in sports. of empowerment for persons with disabilities. Through
His peers also started to engage with and accept him. these programmes, they recognise their abilities, gain
self-confidence, and establish their identity in society.
These experiences highlighted that sports can play a For their position in society to improve and for them
crucial role in the personal development of disabled to receive respect, such programmes are essential.
students. However, it is essential to provide these Instead of Merely gathering crowds in the name of
students with proper training. They should learn sports, empowering persons with disabilities through
the rules of the sport and practice under expert proper training, and a fair selection process is far more
supervision so that they can perform in competitions, critical.
further boosting their self confidence. Inclusive sports

57