Sierra Leone’s National Sports Authority (NSA) has engaged in constructive discussions with the Basic Education Ministry and other senior officials to establish a partnership between the Ministry and the NSA to advance school sports and physical education in Sierra Leone.
The NSA delegation and MBSSE officials discussed the importance of effective collaboration in promoting school sports within the education system. The emphasis was placed on fostering a culture of sports participation and physical activity among students.
Discussions also centered on the provision of necessary infrastructure and training opportunities to enhance the sports programmes within schools. This includes facilities, equipment, and resources needed to support the development of student athletes.
The meeting highlighted the significance of offering training opportunities for Physical Education (PE) teachers to aid in talent identification among students. By empowering teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge, schools can better nurture sporting talent at a grassroots level.
An essential aspect of the discussion was the organization of events aimed at promoting and showcasing identified athletes from schools. This initiative seeks to provide a platform for talented students to excel and gain recognition in the sporting arena.
The introduction of traditional sports and games into the school curricula was also addressed as a means to promote physical exercise and engage students in culturally rich sporting activities.
Acting Director of Physical and Health Education in the Basic Education Ministry, Sahid Conteh expressed gratitude to the delegation for their visit and stressed the ministry’s longstanding eagerness for such collaborative initiatives.
He highlighted the crucial roles played by both institutions in promoting sports development within the country.
He commended the initiative to integrate traditional sports into the school curriculum, noting that this approach will benefit pupils in communities without elite sports facilities, allowing them to engage in physical activities through traditional games.
Looking ahead, he emphasised the need to align efforts and coordinate a calendar of activities in partnership with national sporting associations to maximize the impact of the collaboration.
In line with this commitment, a working group comprising officials from both institutions will be established to facilitate the planning and implementation of collaborative initiatives.
The collaborative effort marks a significant milestone in enhancing school sports and physical education in Sierra Leone, underscoring the joint commitment to fostering a culture of sports participation and talent development among students.Top of Form
