In an era of rapid technological advancements, career aspirations are often dictated by societal norms, with many students feeling compelled to pursue medicine or engineering—either due to family expectations or the pressure to keep up with their peers. However, as perspectives shift, students who have consistently excelled in sports and extracurricular activities now have viable pathways to turn their passion into a profession. Institutions like SAI Lakshmibai National College of Physical Education (LNCPE) provide exceptional education and training in physical education and sports, eliminating the uncertainty of choosing the right institute. Renowned for its innovative teaching methodologies and dynamic programs, Lakshmibai National College for Physical Education has set a benchmark in the field, earning well-deserved recognition. In light of its outstanding contributions over the years, we are proud to honor LNCPE as the College of the Year 2024 for its excellence in physical education and sports training.
From the Scratch
SAI Lakshmibai National College of Physical Education (LNCPE), located in Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram, was established on August 17, 1985, by the Government of India under theMHRD, Department of Education. Named after Rani Lakshmibai, the fearless heroine of India’s First War of Independence, the institute was founded as an extension of Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education (LNIPE). Serving as a model institute for teacher training, Lakshmibai National College for Physical Education offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs, all aimed at developing highly skilled professionals in the field.
The institute is renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities, including a well-equipped library that provides both physical and digital resources such as e-magazines, e-books, and a vast collection of academic and research materials catering to students and scholars.
LNCPE’s academic programs emphasize interactive and experiential learning, integrating workshops, assignments, practice teaching, and projects to foster a deeper understanding of physical education. Beyond academics, the college actively encourages students to refine their skills through intramural and extramural activities, as well as literary and cultural events, ensuring holistic physical, technical, and intellectual development.
A Leading Hub for Research and Innovation
SAI Lakshmibai National College for Physical Education is the sole research center for Physical Education affiliated with the University of Kerala, with 63.6% of its faculty recognized as research supervisors by the university. The institute boasts state-of-the-art laboratories in various fields, including Sports Medicine, Sports Psychology, Sports Biomechanics, Sports Nutrition, Sports Anthropometry, Biochemistry, Strength & Conditioning, and Exercise Physiology, providing top-notch facilities for advanced research and practical applications.
The institution has made remarkable contributions with 708 completed studies which includes 28 Phd.Thesis , 31 M.Phil Dissertation (Course was stopped by UoK) and 649 MPE/MPES Thesis. Beyond academics, Lakshmibai National College for Physical Education plays a pivotal role in conducting high-impact projects in Physical Education and Sports Sciences. Some of its key initiatives include hosting the 22nd Biennial Conference in collaboration with the International Society for Comparative Physical Education and Sport (ISCPES), organizing Sportscon 2024—a specialized workshop on Nutrition and Anti-Doping in partnership with PEFI and Amway, and leading the Project Future India (PFI) Referee Education Course in association with the All India Football Federation (AIFF). The institute also facilitates AIFF Football Coaching License Courses and conducts a Workshop on Yoga & Physical Education in collaboration with the Department of Education, Lakshadweep.
Revolutionizing Sports Education
SAI Lakshmibai National College of Physical Education (LNCPE), in collaboration with Khelo India and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, plays a vital role in grassroots sports education through its Physical Education (PE) and Community Coaching Program. This initiative provides structured training to PE teachers, community coaches, and school educators, equipping them with the necessary skills to nurture young talent. Notably, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the program transitioned online, successfully training over 76,000 teachers and coaches across eight batches, ensuring widespread access to quality sports education.
A significant milestone in sports digitalization, Lakshmibai National College for Physical Education has contributed to the development of e-Khel Pathshala, India’s first national-level online sports education platform under the Khelo India initiative. Delivered through a Learning Management System (LMS) that supports 10,000 users, the program offers standardized, level-based training in 13 sports disciplines. With a structured curriculum covering sports science, Physical Education, and coaching, participants progress through four training levels, culminating in a six-week Certificate Course in Sports Coaching.
In the Days to Come
Lakshmibai National College for Physical Education and its management has outlined a strategic roadmap to further solidify its position as a premier institution in physical education and sports training. A key focus is the expansion of grassroots coaching license courses in collaboration with various sports federations, aimed at equipping students and professionals with specialized expertise. Additionally, as the designated South Zone center for referee education under the All India Football Federation (AIFF), the institute plans to conduct further referee training courses in 2025.
Lastly, plans are also underway to introduce a workshop on Strength & Conditioning and refresher courses in Physical Education for scouted students and athletes, ensuring continuous skill enhancement and professional growth.
