New Delhi: Indian hockey players at the international, national, and state levels can now pursue academic excellence without putting their sporting careers on hold, thanks to a historic partnership between Amity University Online (AUO) and Hockey India. Through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the two organizations will offer robust educational opportunities tailored to the unique needs of sportspersons.
This significant announcement coincides with Hockey India’s 100th anniversary, commemorated across the nation today as “Hockey Day”, a celebration of a century of Indian hockey excellence.
The MoU was formally signed by Secretary General of Hockey India, Bhola Nath, and Chairman of Amity University Online, Ajit Chauhan, in the presence of Treasurer of Hockey India, Sekar J. Manoharan, along with senior dignitaries from Amity University at their Noida campus.
Empowering Athletes with Education
Calling the initiative a “historic moment,” Bhola Nath expressed his confidence in the future of Indian women’s hockey, stating, “In the next World Cup and Olympics, the Women’s Hockey India team will definitely get Gold. This MoU is an opportunity for sportspersons to complete their studies, which will be a blessing to our players.”
He also highlighted the challenges many athletes face, particularly women, who often have to halt their education after high school due to rigorous training schedules.
Founder President of Amity Education Group, Ashok K. Chauhan, emphasized the university’s long-standing vision to support every Indian athlete’s educational journey, ensuring a solid foundation for their post-sports career.
Comprehensive Scholarship and Program Details
Under this strategic partnership, Amity University Online will offer up to 100% scholarships on a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including B.Com, MBA, and Bachelor of Arts. Athletes will also gain free access to a three-month Certificate Course in Sports Psychology, aimed at enhancing their mental resilience and performance.
Chairman of Amity University Online, Ajit Chauhan, remarked, “This initiative acknowledges the balancing act athletes face between academics and sport. With our flexible and fully online programs, we are committed to creating a nurturing academic ecosystem for Indian hockey players.”
National Heroes Take the Lead
Leading the way as the first enrollees under this visionary partnership are Indian Women’s Hockey Team Captain Salima Tete and Defender Jyoti. Salima has enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts program.
Speaking at the ceremony, Salima Tete said, “Education has always been a dream I had to set aside to pursue hockey. With this scholarship and Amity University Online’s flexible online programs, I wish to pursue Bachelor of Arts from Amity and would like to work in the area of sports only and promote Hockey forever. I can now continue my education without compromising my training schedule or match commitments. This opportunity means everything to me and will inspire many young players who believe they must choose between education and sports.”
Jyoti echoed her sentiments for MBA marketing and proudly said that she would like to pursue PhD from Amity. “The online format makes it possible to study around our rigorous training schedules. I’m excited to begin this educational journey alongside my hockey career, knowing that both will strengthen my future.”
Inclusive Opportunities for All Hockey India Players
The scholarship program is open to all active Hockey India players across district, state, national, and international levels. By offering flexible, quality education alongside elite-level sport, this partnership paves the way for a new era in holistic athlete development in India.
A New Standard for Indian Sports
This collaboration between Hockey India and Amity University Online is the first of its kind in India, setting a benchmark for how academic institutions and sports federations can collaborate to build a brighter, more secure future for athletes.
