Tamil Para Sports - TPS

Since 2016, Tamil Para Sports has been a vital initiative in Sri Lanka’s Northern and Eastern Provinces. Created to address the rise in disabilities from three decades of conflict, the program empowers individuals with disabilities, whether conflict-related or natural, through sports.

overview

The prolonged conflict in Sri Lanka significantly increased the number of persons with disabilities in the Northern and Eastern Provinces. To address this, the Government of Sri Lanka, along with various NGOs and INGOs, has launched numerous inclusive initiatives. Tamil Para Sports uniquely uses sports to transform community perceptions and improve the lives of these individuals.

Project Objectives
  • Promote Inclusivity and Equality

    Provide equal opportunities for persons with disabilities to participate in sports and recreational activities.

  • Enhance Physical and Mental Well-being

    Improve the overall health and self-confidence of participants through regular sports activities and competitions.

  • Foster Community Interaction

    Encourage social integration and interaction within the community, reducing stigma and isolation.

  • Develop Independence and Leadership

    Equip participants with the skills and confidence and strengthening physical stamina to engage in income-generating activities and take on leadership roles within their communities.

  • Achieve Sporting Excellence

    Develop athletic talent and provide opportunities for participants to compete at national and international levels, including the Paralympics.

  • Improve Social Cohesion

    Foster inter-ethnic harmony by bringing together teams from different ethnic communities, promoting mutual respect and understanding.

Project Components
  • Sports Training and Development

    Provide training sessions as needed in collaboration with local departments for various para sports, including wheelchair basketball, para-athletics, sitting volleyball, and blind cricket. Engage experienced local coaches specialized in para sports to deliver high-quality training.

  • Competitions and Events

    Organize biennial para sports events in the Northern and Eastern Provinces to ensure all persons with disabilities can participate in training sessions and sports meets, showcasing their talents. Facilitate participation in national and international para sports events, including the Paralympics.

  • Community Engagement and Awareness

    Conducting awareness campaigns to change community perceptions about the abilities and potential of persons with disabilities. Involving families, schools, and local organizations in supporting and promoting para sports.

  • Capacity Building and Independence

    Providing training and resources to help participants develop skills for income-generating activities. Encouraging participants to take on leadership roles in community-based organizations.

  • Social Cohesion Initiatives

    In future, Inviting teams from various ethnic communities across Sri Lanka to participate in Tamil Para Sports events. Organizing mixed-ethnicity teams and inter-ethnic sports competitions to promote understanding and unity. Facilitating cultural exchange programs and joint community service projects to build relationships and mutual respect.

Project impact

Tamil Para Sports has made a profound and lasting impact since its inception, empowering athletes and promoting inclusivity in the world of sports.

  • Enhanced Community Perception

    Improved acceptance and understanding of persons with disabilities within the community.

  • Increased Self-confidence

    Boosted the self-esteem and confidence of participants through sports achievements.

  • Athletic Success

    Enabled athletes to compete in national and international events, with some winning medals and joining the National Cricket Team for the Blind.

  • Community Integration

    Fostered stronger community bonds and social integration.

  • Social Cohesion

    Strengthened inter-ethnic relations and promoted peace through inclusive sports events.

Future Plans

To expand and sustain the impact of Tamil Para Sports, the following future plans are proposed

  • Expansion of Programs

    Introduce new sports and activities to cater to a broader range of disabilities and interests.

  • Capacity Building

    Train more coaches and support staff to ensure high-quality training and mentorship.

  • Partnerships and Collaborations

    Establish partnerships with local and international organizations to access additional resources, expertise, and funding.

  • Continuous Improvement

    Conduct research to continuously improve training methodologies and adapt programs to the evolving needs of participants.

  • Enhanced Social Cohesion Efforts

    Develop more initiatives aimed at promoting inter-ethnic harmony and collaboration through sports.