The students will have an option to choose from physical exercises like sit-ups, pull ups, rope climbing etc
The University of Calicut in Kerala has devised a novel strategy to keep students fit - enroll in the physical education programme and gain 24 extra marks in four semesters. The students will have an option to choose from physical exercises like sit-ups, pull ups, rope climbing, running or other challenging activities; a 10-hour workout in each of the four semesters is mandatory to secure these marks.
"Large number of boys and girls are focussing only on getting A grades. They are studying and staying at home. So, we are targeting them also. So many sicknesses which used to be associated with the elderly, now are being seen among the young like diabetes and obesity," said Dr Abdulsalam, the Vice Chancellor.
The grace marks will be awarded to students who pass the a fitness test.
"Out of 24 fitness items short listed, they need to pass at least in 6 items each semester and have 80% attendance in the in the fitness sessions to be eligible for grace marks," Sakheer Hussain, Director of Physical education.
At Farokh college in Kozhikode, most girls admit they stopped sports activities years ago. Many of these young women are married off while still in college. Many say marks may prove to be just the incentive needed to motivate students.
"What can get better - we get marks and you get physically fit too," said Ishmat Shahana, a student. "We are netizens, we stay at home with so many responsibilities. This move will motivate us also," added Shaheen, another student.
But given the conservative outlook in the region, not everyone welcomes the move though. "It's unacceptable and discriminatory. Physical fitness is no test of intellectual capacity. What about those who for some reason can't take up these tasks?" said Fathima SN, a student.
But Dr Zeenat Mohammad Kunni, a professor believes, "This move will be challenging, especially for girls in this region. Girls here are restricted from many tasts early on. This may the change and motivation required for many, even for teachers."