Kannur University Appoints PT Usha As Dean Of Faculty Of Sports

One of the most distinguished Indian track and field athletes of all time, PT Usha has been appointed as Kannur University's Dean of Faculty for sports science and physical education. The 55-year-old Olympian had taken to Twitter to announce her nomination for the post recently. "Delighted with the nomination as Dean, Faculty of Sports Science & Physical Education of Kannur University by Hon'ble Chancellor. Looking forward to contributing to the betterment of Sports Science and Physical Education," she wrote.

Dean of Sports

PT Usha currently runs the Usha School of Athletics which is committed to the training and development of sports in the nation. Usha is also a mentor herself who teaches a preferred few athletes.

The Payyoli Express is now set for an interesting challenge as she has been named the Dean of faculty of sports science and physical education department at the University of Kannur.

The chancellor of the university, Arif Mohammed Khan decided the name of PT Usha for the appointment. He is also the Governor of Kerala.

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Challenges Ahead

The vice-chancellor of the University, Gopinath Ravindran, said that though the usual practice is to appoint a dean from the academic circles, they don't have such personalities in the sports field. Hence the resolution to designate Usha, who is a prominent sports star, with global renown.

Ravindran also mentioned that it would be an honorary appointment for Usha. She will not teach classes. Her pivotal role will concern the pursuits led by the sports science and physical education administration and their decision-making process.

"This part of the state can do wonders in sports. Since, Usha is also from the area, she would be able to give uplift the sports situation here. We are confident that it would serve the university as well," the Vice-Chancellor further added.

Speaking on her appointment, an excited Usha told the Times of India that she is yet to understand the enormity of the proposition, and she is waiting for more news from the varsity officials in this regard.

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Past laurels

PT Usha is one of the most celebrated Indian athletes of all time. Apart from claiming various national titles, she acquired a total of 14 Gold, six Silver, and three Bronze medals at the Asian Championships.

She also has four gold medals at the Asiad, all of which came during the 1986 Seoul Asian Games, and holds seven silver medals from Asian Games as well.

PT Usha won the Arjuna Award in 1983, and the Padma Shri in 1985 for her exceptional contributions towards the sport. She has also been felicitated with Adidas Golden Shoe Award, the Best athlete in Asia award, and World trophy for the best athlete.

While representing India at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, the ace sprinter missed out on a Bronze medal by 1/100th of a second in 400m hurdles. Her timing of 55.42 during this race persists as the Indian 400m Hurdles record till date. The veteran athlete also took part in 1980, 1988, 1996 editions of the Summer Olympics.

Also Read: Payyoli Express PT Usha Conferred With IAAF Veteran Pin

What's next?

Former sprinter PT Usha is willing to help the students of the department in all the ways possible. Becoming the Dean is a massive achievement in itself, add to that the fact that she is the first sportsperson from Kerala to be bestowed such an academic honour.

Image: Firstpost.com

Saumya Rastogi is an intern with SheThePeople.TV