Talented school footballer gets Rs one lakh from SBI

 State Bank of India (SBI) extended financial aid of Rs 1 lakh to Mohammed Fardeen, student of St Agnes Special School Mangaluru, who will play football for India in International Special Olympics which will be held at Los Angeles from July 25 to August 2.

He is the only boy from Karnataka representing India in the football. Regional Manager Khadri Gundu Rao handed over the cheque at a formal function organised at the school here on Friday. He also presented ‘Vishwa Yathri card’, special credit card which can be used within the country as well as abroad.

“The bank wanted to help the special talent which needed financial help. The effort of the school principal and physical trainer in motivating the boy is extraordinary,” he said.

Principal Sr Maria Shruthi said after media coverage about boy’s achievement, people are responding and SBI has done it in a big way. The school has done its part and now it would be of great help if public came forward. If the boy wins a gold medal to the country, it would be a proud moment to the institution, as well as to the country, she said.

Physical Education Director Narayan said the bank has done the work of identifying special talents. This should continue. Total expense is around Rs 5 lakh. Government would reimburse travel expenses, he said.

Mohammed Fardeen, who will plays forward said he is practicing football from past four years and thanked all for the support. CGM Rajani Mishra said “SBI is helping the needy, encouraging them across the country. This donation is part of bank’s CSR activity.” Fardeen’s father C A Farooq was present.