Phuket schools close for Asian Beach Games

PHUKET: Schools throughout Phuket have been ordered to close tomorrow and Friday to ease traffic congestion during the opening days of the 4th Asian Beach Games, which get underway on Friday.

“Many parents might worry about how this might affect their children’s education, but I would like to state that we have made this decision to do our part in supporting the island, which is hosting an international event,” said Chalam Attatham, director of the Phuket Provincial Education Office.

“And by doing this, we are showing that there is unity among Phuket people and that we are placing importance on this event.”

Mr Chalam urged parents to take the opportunity to expose their children to the world of sports, and its positive effects, by taking them to see some of the Beach Games athletes in action.

“The two days off from school are a great opportunity to learn outside the classroom. I encourage every student and parent to show interest in the Asian Beach Games. It is a big event that Phuket might host just once in a lifetime,” he said.

“Education is gained not only by reading textbooks or papers, but also by engaging in activities and experiences. Good students do not learn and grow only by wisdom, but also by having good health. This is why we should give importance to sports, as it is the main way to keep our bodies healthy. There is a lot to learn and see from the Asian Beach Games.”

However, any classroom lessons missed by the forced school closures will have to be made up during the remainder of the term, either during regular classes or by extra-curricular lessons or other activities, Mr Chalam noted.

“I would like to ask parents for their understanding and co-operation, and I hope that students can benefit and learn something from this event,” he said.

Mr Chalam also called for all people on the island to be on their best behavior during the games.

“I would like to see everyone on the island acting as a good host for the Asian Beach Games,” he said.

The Games, to be held November 14-23, is expected to draw thousands of athletes, coaches, support teams and family members from 17 countries across Asia.

The opening ceremony will be held at Saphan Hin on Friday, starting at 6pm.

The competitions began today, with the opening matches in the Beach Flag Football, Foot Volley, Ju-Jitsu, Sambo and Squash being held at venues throughout Phuket (click here).

The Phuket Gazette is proud to have been selected as the sole English-language media sponsor for the 2014 Asian Beach Games being held in Phuket (story here).

For more information on the 4th Asian Beach Games, visit www.phuketthailand2014.com

Keep checking the Phuket Gazette, join our Facebook fan page or follow us on Twitter @PhuketGazette for the latest news updates.

— Khumpee Prasertphol