On November 30, 2023, the Department of Physical Education at NIMS School of Humanities and Liberal Arts successfully conducted a Field Maintenance Supervisor Training Program. This initiative, aligned with Sustainable Development Goal No. 1 – No Poverty, aimed to equip young individuals with the technical skills and knowledge required to maintain sports facilities and grounds. By focusing on employability and sustainability, the program provided participants with practical tools to secure meaningful work while contributing to community development.

Background and Objectives

The growing demand for skilled personnel in sports and recreation industries creates a unique opportunity for economic empowerment. The Field Maintenance Supervisor Training Program was designed to address this demand while fostering employability in rural communities. Its objectives were:

1. Skill Development: To train participants in sports facility management, including turf maintenance and equipment handling.
2. Promoting Employment: To provide job-ready skills that can lead to employment in sports facilities or entrepreneurship opportunities.
3. Sustainability Focus: To emphasize environmentally friendly practices in maintaining sports grounds.
4. Community Impact: To encourage local youth to contribute to community development through their expertise.

Program Highlights

The training program took place at the Chandwaji Athletics and Football Ground, engaging 23 participants aged 17–27 from Chandwaji and Manoharpur villages. Key components of the program included:

1. Theoretical Training:
   • Participants were introduced to the principles of field maintenance, including turf care, irrigation, and pest management.
   • Lectures on the importance of sustainable practices in sports facility management were delivered by experts.
2. Hands-On Practice:
   • Practical sessions allowed participants to apply their learning directly to the field. Activities included measurements, markings, and equipment maintenance.
   • Participants practiced techniques such as leveling, mowing, and repairing damaged turf to ensure a professional finish.
3. Supervisor Skills Development:
   • The program emphasized leadership and communication skills necessary for supervisory roles.
   • Participants were taught how to manage teams, allocate resources effectively, and oversee day-to-day operations and oversee day-to-day operations.
4. Health and Safety Protocols:

• • • Safety measures, including equipment handling and emergency response, were a critical part of the training to ensure workplace safety.
      

      Implementation and Engagement

      The program was carefully structured to maximize learning outcomes and participant engagement:

      • Interactive Approach: Trainers used interactive methods such as group discussions and Q&A sessions to ensure active participation.
      • Localized Focus: Examples and scenarios relevant to the participants’ communities were used to make the training relatable and actionable.
      • Resource Support: All necessary tools and materials for the training were provided by the university, ensuring equal access for all participants.

      Challenges and Solutions

      1. Limited Exposure to Formal Training:
         • Many participants lacked prior exposure to formal training programs. Trainers addressed this by breaking down concepts into simple, understandable modules.
      2. Skepticism About Career Prospects:
         • Participants were initially unsure about the job opportunities in field maintenance. Trainers shared success stories and provided insights into the growing demand for such skills in sports and recreational facilities.
      3. Logistical Challenges:
         • Coordinating transportation and scheduling for participants from multiple villages posed logistical difficulties, which were resolved through careful planning and community collaboration.

      Outcomes and Achievements

      The program successfully achieved its goals, delivering significant benefits to participants and their communities:

      • Skill Acquisition:
        • Participants gained technical expertise in field maintenance, including turf management and equipment care.
      • Enhanced Employability:
        • With practical, job-ready skills, participants were better positioned to secure employment in sports facilities or start their own ventures.
      • Community Development:
        The training created a pool of skilled individuals who could contribute to maintaining local sports grounds, promoting community recreation and physical fitness.
      • Sustainability Awareness:
        • Participants learned environmentally friendly practices, fostering a commitment to sustainability in their work.

      • Testimonials

        Participants shared their gratitude and enthusiasm for the program:

        • “I never thought maintaining a sports field required so many skills. This training has opened my eyes to new job opportunities.” – Ramesh Singh, Participant.
        • “The hands-on sessions were incredibly helpful. I feel confident about applying for jobs in sports facility management.” – Sunita Sharma, Participant.
        • “Learning about sustainability in field maintenance inspired me to work in an eco-friendly way.” – Akash Yadav, Participant.

        Future Plans

        NIMS University plans to build on the success of this program by:

        1. Offering advanced training in sports facility management and related fields.
        2. Collaborating with local sports organizations to provide internships and job placements for participants.
        3. Expanding the program to include other villages, ensuring wider reach and impact.

        Conclusion

        The Field Maintenance Supervisor Training Program by NIMS University is a testament to the transformative power of skill development in combating poverty. By equipping participants with technical expertise and employability skills, the program has not only enhanced individual livelihoods but also contributed to community development. It underscores the university’s commitment to creating sustainable opportunities for economic growth and empowerment.