Kerala School Breaks New Ground with Rifle Shooting Programme
GHSS Marayamuttom near Neyyattinkara in Thiruvananthapuram has launched a pioneering rifle shooting training programme for its students. This initiative marks a significant first for the public education sector in Kerala, introducing a specialised sporting discipline directly within school premises.
Official Launch and Programme Goals
Subhash, the additional district nodal officer for Thiruvananthapuram rural, formally inaugurated the programme on Sunday. The event saw enthusiastic participation from students, teachers, and school officials. Prince Jayakumar, the SPC PTA president, presided over the function, lending official support to this innovative venture.
The programme has clear dual objectives. It aims to strengthen physical skills through disciplined shooting practice while simultaneously building mental resilience among participants. School authorities believe this combination will open new sporting opportunities for students who might otherwise lack access to such specialised training.
Technical Training and Support Structure
Rifle shooting coach Shubhanandalal conducted the technical orientation session, providing students with foundational knowledge about equipment handling, safety protocols, and basic shooting techniques. This hands-on approach ensures students receive professional guidance from the outset.
The launch event witnessed strong institutional support. School PTA president Regikumar, SMC chairman Sajikumar, and headmistress Shissy all attended alongside senior assistant Nandini, staff secretary Sindhu, and sports organiser CPO Soudish Thampi. ACPO Ragi and PTA member Sharanya also participated, demonstrating comprehensive backing across school management levels.
Long-term Vision for Student Development
Teachers involved in the programme express ambitious goals. They aim to groom future national and Olympic-level shooters through systematic training and mentorship. This vision underscores their belief that such opportunities should be accessible to every student, regardless of background or previous exposure to shooting sports.
The initiative represents more than just extracurricular activity. It serves as a practical demonstration that specialised sports training can thrive within public educational institutions. By bringing rifle shooting directly to school campuses, GHSS Marayamuttom removes traditional barriers to entry for this demanding sport.
Students now have regular access to professional coaching without needing to travel to distant training facilities. This convenience factor, combined with structured school support, creates an environment where talent can be identified and nurtured systematically. The programme's integration into the school curriculum ensures consistent participation and progressive skill development.
School authorities emphasize the holistic benefits beyond mere marksmanship. They note how shooting sports cultivate concentration, discipline, and emotional control—qualities that translate to academic and personal success. This alignment with broader educational objectives makes the programme particularly valuable for overall student development.
The pioneering effort at GHSS Marayamuttom could inspire similar initiatives across Kerala's public education system. By demonstrating feasibility and benefits, this school sets a precedent for expanding sporting opportunities in government-run institutions. The programme's success may encourage other schools to explore niche sports that develop both physical prowess and mental fortitude.
