Story by Obed Kankiriho
The Commissioner for Physical Education and Sports, Rev. Can. Dr. Duncans Mugumya, has raised concern over the continued neglect of sports in some districts and schools across Uganda.
His remarks came ahead of the upcoming National Kids Athletics and Special Needs Learners’ Championship set to take place in Kabale.
Speaking during the official closing ceremony of a training session for 210 championship officials at Kigezi High School Primary (Lower), Dr. Mugumya condemned the use of non-bonafide players, warning that such practices compromise the integrity of competitions.
He reaffirmed the Ministry of Education and Sports’ zero-tolerance policy on ineligible players and cautioned that any school caught violating this policy would be disqualified.
Dr. Mugumya emphasized the critical role of sports in holistic education and urged schools to treat it with the same importance as academic programs.
He also called on the newly trained officials — including timers, record keepers, judges, and starters — to exhibit fairness and professionalism throughout the event.
Additionally, he expressed concern about the low participation of female students in school sports and urged schools to support and encourage inclusive participation.
The championship will feature teams from all 178 local governments, including athletes under the Special Needs Education (SNE) program.
This year’s competition is expected to draw around 5,000 young athletes competing in various track and field events such as the 60m sprint, long jump, javelin, shot put, and the 4x1500m relay, categorized under two age brackets: under 12 and under 14.
