Dr. Vipul Lunawat, Founder Director, Institute of Sports Science & Technology (ISST)
Sports education is redefining how athletes prepare for life beyond the field, blending rigorous training with academic excellence. At the forefront of this transformation is Dr. Vipul Lunawat, Founder Director of the Institute of Sports Science & Technology (ISST), whose initiatives are creating holistic opportunities for athletes. With a focus on balancing academic growth and athletic pursuits, ISST is shaping the future of sports professionals in India.
The Dr. P. C. Shejwalkar Athlete Scholarship Program aims to foster both physical and academic growth in athletes. Could you elaborate on the criteria used to select scholarship recipients? What qualities or achievements does ISST prioritize in its selection process?
Many athletes, while pursuing their on-field careers, pay little or no attention to their academic growth, making it difficult for them to secure stable careers after retiring from sports. The Dr. P.C. Shejwalkar Athlete Scholarship Program supports deserving athletes who have excelled at the state, national, or international levels, enabling them to pursue sports education degrees or certifications. These programs focus on academic growth while enhancing on-field and off-field performance. Scholarships are awarded based on achievements and merit in sports, with a priority on athletes who wish to contribute to the sports industry.
Given that holistic sports education is a key pillar of ISST’s philosophy, how does the institute balance academic excellence with rigorous athletic training? Could you share examples of how this approach has benefitted athletes who have graduated from ISST?
At ISST, holistic education is the cornerstone of success in today’s dynamic sports landscape. Alongside academic rigor, students gain practical exposure through industry internships, workshops, and guest sessions by sports leaders. By volunteering at large-scale events like the Khelo India Games, students integrate theoretical knowledge with real-world experiences.
Our faculty uses a case study-based teaching system, ensuring a balanced blend of theory and practice. Graduates emerge as confident professionals, equipped to navigate the complexities of the sports industry, including marketing, sponsorships, and facility management.
As India rises in the global sports arena, what role do you envision ISST playing in shaping future athletes and sports professionals? How do your programs prepare students for the multifaceted challenges of the modern sports industry, beyond just physical performance?
The sports industry demands professionals well-versed in diverse fields such as sports marketing, financial management, and legal aspects. ISST’s “Profile Enhancement Program” develops critical life skills, including communication, negotiation, and personal branding.
Through strategic partnerships with top sports organizations and internships at events like the Indian Premier League (IPL), ISST equips students with the tools to excel in both on-field and off-field roles. This comprehensive approach ensures our graduates are industry-ready and capable of addressing multifaceted challenges.
The Khelo India initiative and other government programs have been instrumental in nurturing Indian athletes. How does ISST complement these initiatives through its scholarship program and academic offerings? Are there plans to collaborate with such national programs for greater reach?
The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has done remarkable work through initiatives like Khelo India. ISST actively participates in these efforts by providing practical exposure to students through internships in organizing committees. Our scholarship program aligns with government initiatives by emphasizing grassroots development and holistic growth for athletes.
We continuously seek collaborations with national programs to extend our reach and enhance employability for students. Future plans include tie-ups with organizations like the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to strengthen the academic and professional pathways for emerging talent.
Looking ahead, what are your future aspirations for ISST? How do you plan to expand the scope of your sports education programs and scholarship offerings, especially as the sports industry continues to evolve globally?
As India prepares to host global events like the Olympic Games in 2036, the need for trained sports professionals will rise exponentially. ISST aims to collaborate with global stakeholders to create unparalleled opportunities for students. The scholarship program continues to celebrate athletes’ achievements while equipping them for long-term success in sports careers.
We envision ISST playing a pivotal role in positioning India as a global sports superpower by fostering innovation, professionalism, and inclusivity in sports education.
Conclusion
Sports education is no longer confined to athletic performance; it now encompasses academic rigor, life skills, and industry readiness. Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Vipul Lunawat, ISST is bridging the gap between sports and education, setting a benchmark for holistic development.
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