Students from CamEd Business School take part in the CamEd Men's Futsal Tournament 2024 on September 8. The Brotherhood team emerged as champions after defeating Centurion in a penalty shootout in extra time during the final. CamEd
One of Cambodia’s leading education providers has called for an increase in the provision of sporting programmes in the Kingdom’s schools.
Casey Barnett, director of CamEd Business School, shared his belief that competing in sports provides valuable experience that help students succeed throughout their lives.
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He explained that the benefits of competition continue long after a student completes their studies, whether they enter the workforce or start a business.
Referring to the fact that he trained in wrestling and boxing, and has also played team sports, Casey explained that the pressures and challenges experienced during sporting contests serve as practical lessons. They teach students teamwork, the importance of working under pressure and perseverance in overcoming obstacles to achieve success in life.
For these reasons, CamEdy regularly organises futsal, basketball, and athletics tournaments every year.
Recently, Casey added training and competitions in fencing, table tennis and swimming, giving CamEd students the opportunity to engage in sports and gain real-life experiences that complement their classroom learning.
On September 8, the CamEd Men's Futsal Tournament 2024 took place at the T-Soccer field in the capital’s Toul Kork district. Over 200 students made up the 19 teams that took part.
The Brotherhood team emerged as champions after defeating Centurion in a penalty shootout during the final, following a 1-1 draw during regular time. The Royal D team secured third place.
After the match, Casey outlined the benefits of such contests.
“In sports, there is competition. When there’s competition, our students work hard under various pressures, learn teamwork and persevere to achieve victory. It's similar to working – when we want to win, we must improve our techniques and strive under different pressures to achieve success. Thus, sports will give students lifelong experiences, motivating them to work hard to achieve success,” he said.
He noted that the regular organisation of sporting events aligns with the beliefs of Hang Chuon Naron, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth, and Sports, who has encouraged universities and other higher education institutions to incorporate sports into their curriculum. This aims to identify talented individuals to represent the country in international events.
Casey cited concrete evidence of the wisdom of this approach.
“During the 2023 SEA Games, several CamEd students participated, winning gold, silver and bronze medals for the nation. Students in higher education institutions are a resource with the potential to represent Cambodia in international competitions,” he explained.
Casey shared his suggestion that other higher education institutions in Cambodia create sports programmes for their students. This will provide them with more life experiences.
“I recommend that all higher education institutions add sports programmes and extracurricular activities to enhance students’ experiences. This will cultivate good manners and transform them into knowledgeable and experienced resources for contributing to national society,” he emphasised.
