Today marks the opening of the 17th edition of the International School Games (Bahrain 2024), hosted by the Kingdom of Bahrain until October 31 under the royal patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The ceremony, taking place at the Bahrain National Stadium at 5:30 pm, will celebrate the largest participation in the history of the Games, with 71 countries competing in 26 sports, reflecting Bahrain’s commitment to promoting international sports.

The event begins with the arrival of the royal patron, followed by the national anthem and recitation of verses from the Holy Quran. A parade of participating countries will take place, showcasing cultural diversity and sportsmanship. His Excellency Dr Mohammed bin Mubarak Juma, Minister of Education and Chairman of the Supreme Organizing Committee, will deliver a welcoming speech, followed by a speech from a representative of the International School Sports Federation. The ceremony will include several segments, concluding with a fireworks display.

This prestigious event fosters cooperation and promotes the values of fair competition, demonstrating Bahrain’s commitment to hosting major international sporting events. The Kingdom aims to provide an ideal environment for participants, reinforcing its position on the global sports stage.

Established in 1974, the International School Sports Games aim to offer student-athletes a platform to showcase their talent while encouraging cultural exchange and sportsmanship. The tournament has since grown into one of the world’s most prominent youth sports competitions.

Games will be held in several premier facilities, including Isa Sports City, Khalifa Sports City, Umm Al Hassam, the American University of Bahrain, and other locations, ensuring the best possible experience for all participants.

This event reflects Bahrain’s long-term vision of using sports as a means of building cultural bridges and promoting international understanding between young people from diverse backgrounds.