Oman
Indian Ambassador Prashant Pise Inaugurates New Sports Ground at Indian School Darsait in Oman: Indian School Darsait has inaugurated its much-awaited new Sports Ground, marking an important milestone in the institution’s commitment to holistic education and student development. H.E. Shri Prashant Pise, Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman, officially inaugurated the facility on Monday, November 9, 2026.
Mr. Syed Ahmad Salman, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Indian Schools Oman, attended the ceremony as Guest of Honour. The event brought together Mr. Shalimar Moideen, President of the School Management Committee (SMC), directors, former presidents and members of the SMC, school administrators, teachers, students and distinguished guests.
The new sports facility fulfils a long-standing aspiration of the school community and provides students with an expanded platform to develop athletic abilities, physical fitness, discipline and teamwork.
Indian Ambassador Praises School Leadership and Vision
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Prashant Pise congratulated the school’s leadership, including the President, Principal, School Board, former Presidents and former Principals, for their vision and collective efforts in making the project a reality.
He encouraged students to make effective use of the new facility and learn valuable life lessons through sports. He highlighted the importance of discipline, dedication, management and perseverance, urging young learners to understand that a sports ground offers lessons that extend far beyond physical activity.
The Ambassador also appreciated everyone involved in planning and delivering the infrastructure project.
Grand Inauguration Ceremony Celebrates Sportsmanship and Unity
The inauguration ceremony began with the arrival of the Chief Guest, followed by the Royal Anthem of Oman, the National Anthem of India, prayers and Quran recitation.
Mr. Unnikrishnan M.A., Head of the Infrastructure Subcommittee of the School Management Committee, welcomed the gathering.
Ambassador Pise formally inaugurated the ground by unveiling the commemorative plaque, followed by the hoisting of the Sports Flag, symbolising unity, determination and sporting excellence.
One of the major highlights was an impressive March Past by the school’s four houses: Bapu, C.V. Raman, Tagore and Vivekananda. Students demonstrated discipline, coordination and teamwork during the presentation.
An inspiring Torch Run further added to the celebrations, representing perseverance, determination and the pursuit of excellence.
School Management Highlights Importance of Sports in Education
In his presidential address, Mr. Shalimar Moideen expressed gratitude to His Majesty and the Government of Oman for their continued support and benevolence towards the Indian community.
He acknowledged the contributions of everyone who worked behind the scenes to make the Sports Ground a reality. He also emphasised the importance of sports in developing well-rounded individuals and helping students identify and nurture their talents.
Mr. Syed Ahmad Salman, delivering the keynote address, highlighted the importance of vision, commitment and collective action.
He remarked, “The vision requires a mission and a missionary zeal to achieve and to attain and that’s what we see today. The vision and mission is all realized and we have achieved what we wanted for our children.”
He encouraged students to use the new facility effectively to improve their physical well-being and pursue sporting ambitions.
Mr. Shabeer Shamsudheen, Convenor of the SMC, acknowledged the collective efforts behind the development and presented an overview of the infrastructure improvements undertaken by the committee during the previous academic year. He also outlined the school’s future development plans.
The dignitaries were felicitated with commemorative mementos, while Mr. Nishanth P.P., Vice President of the SMC, proposed the vote of thanks.
34th Annual Athletic Meet Adds Sporting Excitement
The celebrations continued with the school’s 34th Annual Athletic Meet, which brought together students for a day of competitions, performances and sporting demonstrations.
The event opened with entertaining novelty races, including the popular ‘Caterpillar Race’, followed by an energetic dance presentation titled ‘Rhythm in Motion’.
Mr. Shaji Kaniyarattil, Head of the Sports Subcommittee of the SMC, thanked parents for their patience and trust throughout the development of the facility. He also acknowledged the Infrastructure Subcommittee for creating an arena where students could challenge themselves, build character and pursue their ambitions.
He appreciated the continued support of the School Management Committee and encouraged students to aim higher, run faster, support one another and uphold the true spirit of sportsmanship.
Mr. Muzaffar Nasir Shiralkar, Vice-Captain of the Oman National Cricket Team, was invited to declare the 34th Annual Athletic Meet officially open.
Students Showcase Athletic Talent Across Multiple Sports
Students participated enthusiastically in a variety of athletic competitions, including 100-metre races and 4 x 100-metre relay events conducted in two phases.
The programme also featured demonstrations of karate, taekwondo, gymnastics and kickboxing, showcasing the students’ strength, agility, coordination and discipline.
During the prize distribution ceremony, C.V. Raman House secured the March Past Trophy, while Vivekananda House finished in second place.
Individual champions and Best All-Rounders were recognised for their outstanding performances. Students who represented the school at the national level in Handball, Cricket, Kho-Kho and Athletics were also honoured for their achievements.
