New Delhi, Jul 11 (PTI) The Archery Association of India (AAI) on Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Amity University to offer certificate programmes and scholarships to archers, enabling them to pursue higher education without compromising their sporting careers. The initiative aims to provide flexibility to senior, junior, and para archers, allowing them to balance academics with their rigorous training schedules. Under the agreement, Amity University will offer tailored undergraduate and postgraduate programmes designed to accommodate the demanding routines of athletes. The university will also provide sports scholarships under the banner of ‘CHAMPS’, offering three tiers of financial support. International-level players will be eligible for a 100 per cent scholarship, covering the full programme fee. National-level athletes will receive a 50 per cent scholarship, while state and district-level archers can avail of a 30 per cent fee waiver. “Our archers are doing well in both recurve and compound categories. Along with sports, education is also crucial. This collaboration will ensure that even archers from remote areas at the state, district, and national level can pursue online education,” said AAI president Arjun Munda told reporters. “Athletes often struggle to complete their education due to the demands of sport. Sometimes, a lack of education can affect their confidence. I am thankful to Amity University for extending this support through the MoU.” The online learning model offers flexibility with recorded lectures, allowing students to study at their convenience and take exams without interrupting their training or competitions. Additionally, Amity University Online will offer a free certification programme in Sports Psychology to enhance athletes’ mental strength and performance. A dedicated academic counsellor will also be assigned to support archers with academic guidance, assignments, examinations, and technical queries related to the learning platform. Kisik Lee yet to sign contract: AAI secretary general ============================== Legendary Korean archery coach Kisik Lee, who has guided multiple countries to Olympic glory, is set to take over as India’s recurve head coach ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Games. While Lee is expected to join the Indian setup in August, Archery Association of India (AAI) secretary general Virendra Sachdeva on Thursday said the contract is yet to be formalised. “He hasn’t yet signed the contract. We are waiting for some approvals. It will be done soon,” Sachdeva told PTI. Lee served as head coach of the USA national team from 2006 to 2024, playing a pivotal role in the development of several top archers, including multiple-time World and Olympic medallist Brady Ellison. Before taking charge of the United States team, Lee coached the South Korean national side and later guided Australian archer Simon Fairweather to a historic gold medal at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. He also mentored Tom Cuddihy to a bronze at the 2004 Athens Games. PTI ATK AM ATK AM AM