Launching the state-level programme at the Jimmy George Aquatic Complex here, the minister said the initiative aims to equip students with swimming skills, which are essential not only as a sport but also as a life-saving ability in a state criss-crossed by rivers, canals and other water bodies.

Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 5: General Education Minister N Samsudheen on Wednesday said 14,000 school students across the state would receive swimming training in the first phase of the 'Aquafit' programme, launched as part of the Kerala government's 100-day action plan.

Launching the state-level programme at the Jimmy George Aquatic Complex here, the minister said the initiative aims to equip students with swimming skills, which are essential not only as a sport but also as a life-saving ability in a state criss-crossed by rivers, canals and other water bodies.

The project envisages providing swimming training to 1,000 students in each of Kerala's 14 districts.

Students selected from schools will be trained at suitable swimming pools located within a five-kilometre radius of their schools, with the support of local self-government institutions and other departments concerned.