More than 600 students from 48 schools across the country are taking part in the 8th National School Games at Ugyen Academy and Khuruthang Middle Secondary School in Punakha.
The students are the winners from intra-dzongkhag and seven regional level competitions held during this academic year. They will now compete in the national level.
During the five-day event, students will participate in basketball, volleyball, badminton, table tennis, chess and other athletic events.
The Education Minister, Thakur Singh Powdyel, during the opening informed the students on the importance of sports and the national youth policies. Lyonpo said the national school games are being organised not only to excel in sports, but also for building friendship, leadership and unity.
The Education Minister urged the students to be a good and productive citizen.
The event aims to promote games and sports by encouraging mass participation and healthy competition in schools, dzongkhags and regional levels. It is also aimed at helping students to grow healthy, be responsible and productive citizens.
In the coming week, the Department of Youth and Sports will be organising the National Level School football tournament at Tingtibi and Yebilaptsa in Zhemgang. A traditional archery tournament will also be organised at Gaselo Higher Secondary school in Wangduephodrang.
