Sports

Sports is about beauty and grace, power and precision, commitment and dedication fairness and inclusiveness.

The Republic of Maldives endorses the UNESCO International Charter for physical Education and Sports, as enshrined in Article 1:

"The practice of physical education and sports is a fundamental right for all...and this right should not be treated different from rights to adequate food, shelter and medical care."

Within the context of its  social justices objective, will the Government of the Maldives will give sports the same recognition, respect and encouragement as are accorded to the other social programs such as health services, housing, education and food?

The pressures on elite athletes are heavy and, apart from financial support, they need support also with education and careers. Many do not know where to seek advice.

Some career or financial assistance may be available from local businesses or international businesses operating in the country, while the police and defense force can provide useful careers for some athletes while, at the same time, letting them pursue their sporting interests. Opportunities might be available in the public service. This will require some special initiative to stimulate interest and the council will investigate the possibilities for finding employment for athletes in the national services or corporations.

It is considered, however, that, in the short term, there would be advantage in designating a person, who might be a volunteer or retired businessman, to provide advice or some help identified elite athletes to find career opportunities or financial assistance. Support would also be provided by the Maldives National Institute of Sports.