Kochi school taps World Cup fever for anti-drug campaign
The SNDP Higher Secondary School at Udayamperoor, on the outskirts of Kochi, has virtually transformed into a FIFA World Cup football village under a novel
The SNDP Higher Secondary School at Udayamperoor, on the outskirts of Kochi, has virtually transformed into a FIFA World Cup football village under a novel initiative that harnesses football fever to support the State government’s anti-drug campaign, Operation Toofan. Forty-eight classrooms in the school, which has over 3,500 students, have each been assigned one of the 48 teams participating in the global showpiece through a draw of lots conducted by class leaders. Jerseys and giant flags of all participating teams are being prepared, while cut-outs of star players carrying anti-drug messages will be displayed across the campus.
“A goal-scoring campaign has also been arranged to draw popular support for the fight against drugs. Participants will sign a register maintained at the school before kicking the ball, as we aim to contribute maximum signatures to the one million targeted by the State government under Operation Toofan. A mega flash mob in our school ground is also part of the plan,” said Reeja D., school Principal. Although the official inauguration of the campaign is scheduled for later this week, the goal-scoring campaign got under way on Monday, coinciding with the reopening of higher secondary classes, when scores of students and parents turned up at the school.
“We are planning to dedicate each day to people from different categories such as literary figures, sports personalities, and people’s representatives,” said Beena T. Rajesh, Headmistress. The inaugural function will serve as a symbolic stand against drugs. A ball made of tobacco and related products will be kicked apart, while drugs will be symbolically shown the red card. “The valedictory function will be a colourful affair. Everyone, including students, teachers, and parents, will dress in the jerseys of their favourite teams to mark the occasion,” said Smitha Karun, Malayalam faculty member.
Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala is expected to attend the function. The concluding event will also celebrate the newly crowned FIFA World Cup champions, who will have been decided in the final at MetLife Stadium in the Meadowlands Sports Complex in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on July 19.
The BriefWire