Dealing in Education: Aditya Kaura, 35

Aditya Kaura is founder of Leapstart that offers a physical education curriculum for school children

Obesity and an unhealthy lifestyle in young children has been a cause of concern across the globe. In 1989 the SPARK (Sports Play and Active Recreation for Kids) programme was developed in America to make the younger generation fit for life. LeapStart has worked on this programme and refined it for India. Founded by Aditya Kaura, the organisation addresses the sports and fitness needs for school children in India.

At present 12,000 to15,000 school children are enrolled with LeapStart and the programme is available across schools in Bangalore, New Delhi, Kochi and Munnar. Physical education curriculum with trained instructors and age appropriate equipment for school children is provided by LeapStart. Classes are held in school during the sport and fitness breaks. The programme is divided into three components; the first component is for students from kindergarten to grade two.

The second component is from grade three to six and the third for students from class seven to 12. Describing the activities in the programme Kaura says, "We are committed for ensuring holistic development of children through high quality sport and fitness training. Each component provides a 10 unit programme. This ranges from foundation classes to dance and sports."

The organisation believes that the values for a healthy lifestyle should be introduced from a young age and hopes to see a healthy India. LeapStart began in January 2010 and by June 2011, they plan to train at least 40,000 students. The programme is spreading to schools in Hydrabad, Chennai and Pune.

Sneak peek

• Kaura started the company in 2010 in Bangalore. He has completed his masters in business administration.

• He believes that there are many ups and downs in life but one must hang on if one feels that he/she is on the right path.

Reproduced From India Today. © 2011. LMIL. All rights reserved.