Thailand Celebrates 37th National Student Games

On January 22nd, the Opening Ceremony of the National University Games of Thailand was held in Thammasat University. The Games are at their 37th edition and will last from Jannuary 22nd to 30th. They are gathering 11,000 student-athletes representing 111 Universities who will compete in 22 sports. The University that welcomed the Athletes’ Village of the 24th Universiade 2007 is welcoming these Games in the context of the celebrations of the 75th Anniversary of its foundation.

Prime Minister Avisit VejachivaThe Prime Minister, Mr. Avisit Vejachiva, who was wearing the official jacket of the Organising Committee, declared the Games officially open and gave the medals to the athletes that took part to the disabled competition (a demonstration sport) which was part of the pre-program of the Ceremony.

After the March Pass of the athletes, the board of the National University Sport Board of Thailand (USBT) took place on the podium located in the field. USBT President Kim Chaiseansook took the floor to welcome the participants and Rector of the University Mr. Surapon Nitikraipot insisted on the importance for his university to host the Games during this special year for Thammasat.

The cultural show with a music band and modern and traditional dancers performing lasted 40 minutes. After the Ceremony the Rector of the University who was the Mayor of the 24th Universiade Athletes’ Village presented the mascot to FISU representative Kolë Gjeloshaj, FISU Director for Educational Services and Development & Chief of Staff to the President.

Kolë Gjeloshaj (r) with the Rector of Thammasat University