Dubai:The Dubai Sports Council has unveiled the evaluation cycle for the third edition of the 'Hamdan bin Mohammed Order of Merit for Sports Education School'. This prestigious accolade aims to encourage public and private schools within the emirate of Dubai to identify sporting prodigies early, develop sports training infrastructure, and promote physical activity as a crucial component of student life and character-building.
According to Wam, the initiative, guided by Dubai's leadership, is part of the Sports Innovation Lab and is open to all public and private schools in Dubai without classification, ensuring equal opportunities and encouraging new schools to participate. The program aims to build an integrated database of athletically gifted students at the emirate level, supporting sports development, future planning, and integration with broader strategies to inspire sporting success.
H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, welcomed the launch, highlighting that the initiative reflects the vision of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to inspire sporting champions in every school. The third edition is noted as the most comprehensive, enabling schools to compete for the award, with winners selected based on year-long efforts to advance sports in educational institutions.
The initiative includes an electronic evaluation mechanism based on five axes 'Sports Excellence', 'Culture of Health and Well-Being', 'Education, Integration and Awareness', 'Sports and Recreation Facilities', and 'Utilisation of Technology and Innovation'. Schools will undergo evaluations, with ten shortlisted finalists receiving field visits and certificates of appreciation. The process will culminate with the selection and honoring of two schools on 15th April 2027.
Khalfan Belhoul, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, emphasized the strategic importance of the initiative within Dubai's broader strategy to advance community sports participation, aiming to build a healthier society starting with the school environment. The initiative seeks to inspire excellence in academics and sports, improve student health and vitality, and develop sports programs and facilities in educational institutions, fostering a healthy and safe school environment.