Beyond competition: Building character, spirit and friendship

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The Academy in Dhaka launched its inaugural Athletic Programme, marking an important step in strengthening opportunities for students to learn and grow through sport. Athletics has always been an integral part of education, offering lessons in discipline, resilience, leadership and teamwork that extend well beyond the field of play. With this new initiative, students will now experience a structured pathway to pursue their sporting interests and develop essential life skills along the way.

The programme offers six sports – football, basketball, volleyball, cricket, table tennis, and track and field – providing opportunities for every student to discover their strengths, challenge themselves and work towards shared goals. These sports were chosen for their ability to encourage collaboration, respect and a healthy balance between mind and body.

Athletics at the Academy goes beyond competition, nurturing community spirit, strengthening friendships and instilling the values of perseverance and fair play. On the court, pitch or track, students will be encouraged to push their limits while also uplifting one another, embodying the ethos of unity and compassion that underpins the Academy’s mission.

“As a sportsperson and coach, I strongly believe that children must understand the importance of physical activity,” said Mr Amit Ahire, Lead PHE Teacher and Wellness Coordinator, while speaking about the launch of the programme. “Even the simplest movements – raising your hands, rotating your ankles while seated, or choosing the stairs instead of the lift – can make a big difference to our health.”

“Physical activity, along with balanced nutrition and sunlight, builds the foundation for overall wellbeing. Beyond fitness, these habits also nurture social, emotional and intellectual growth, reminding us that wellbeing is about the whole person, not just the body.”

This holistic vision of athletics has already begun to resonate with students. Training sessions have been met with enthusiasm and the chance to represent the Academy has sparked pride and purpose across the school community. From trying new sports to building habits of discipline and perseverance, the programme is shaping confident learners who view health and activity as lifelong values.

Looking ahead, the Athletic Programme promises to raise the Academy’s sporting profile and inspire a culture of wellbeing and resilience. Whether through team victories, personal milestones or the everyday discipline of practice, students will be encouraged to see sport as an avenue for growth, balance and joy. The Academy remains proud to champion a vision of education where athletics play a vital role in developing balanced, compassionate and future-ready leaders.