In an exciting collaboration, Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies (MRIIRS), Faridabad, and UNESCO came together to advance the “Fit for Life” program in India. The culmination of this partnership was witnessed in the form of the ‘Fit for Life’ Funshop and the 6th National and International Conference on Health and Sports Sciences. Held on 3rd March, 2023, at the picturesque Manav Rachna campus, the event saw participation from more than 50 delegates hailing from different countries.

The inaugural session was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including Ms. Kim Eunseong (Head, UNESCO, New Delhi), Dr. Yuvaraj Kumar (Chairman, Accord Hospitals), and Ms. Soumi Banerjee (General Manager, My Gov India, Ministry of Electronics, Information, and Technology). Their presence lent immense importance to the event and set the stage for an enlightening discourse on health, sports, and fitness.

Keynote Addresses

The conference featured a lineup of eminent speakers, each shedding light on crucial aspects of health and sports. Dr. P Chinnappa Reddy’s keynote speech emphasized the significance of leading a healthy life through sports and wellness programs. He highlighted the role of physical activity in preventing chronic diseases and underscored the need for promoting fitness as a cornerstone of early life.

21st-century skills for lifelong learning were the focal point of Prof. Thawat Chittrakarn’s talk. He shared insights on how Thailand’s government was driving experiential learning among students, resulting in increased enrolment ratios. Dr. Abdulaziz Alkathiry underscored the value of sports and its numerous advantages, while Dr. Deepak Ram Bairy focused on the importance of traditional games for athletes’ health and environmental sustainability.

Dr. Gurmeet Singh emphasized physical literacy as a key factor in promoting active participation. Dr. Piyush Jain, secretary of the Indian Physical Foundation, stressed the role of sports in achieving fitness and success. Additionally, Dr. Oleksandr Krasilschikov from Malaysia discussed the growth of athletes through strength and conditioning programs.

The conference provided a unique platform to showcase India’s rich cultural diversity. The audience was treated to a mesmerizing cultural dance performance, leaving them captivated by the country’s artistic heritage.

Moreover, the event fostered new cultural and educational collaborations between South East Asian countries and India. Delegates had the opportunity to experience India’s heritage during cultural tours to iconic destinations like Agra and Suraj Kund Mela.

The joint initiative by Manav Rachna and UNESCO to promote Fitness and Sports through the ‘Fit for Life’ Funshop and the 6th National and International Conference on Health and Sports Sciences was a resounding success. The event witnessed meaningful exchanges of knowledge, ideas, and experiences among delegates from different countries.

With the success of this collaboration, it is evident that such partnerships hold tremendous potential in advocating health, fitness, and sports on a global scale. By bringing together experts, professionals, and delegates, the conference acted as a catalyst for creating a healthier and more active world.

As we move forward, Manav Rachna and UNESCO remain committed to furthering the ‘Fit for Life’ program’s objectives and empowering individuals with the tools and knowledge they need to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives through sports and physical activity. Together, we strive to make a positive impact on individuals, communities, and nations worldwide.