Nyeri County is proudly hosting the 2024 National Primary Schools Athletics Championships.
This is the 40th Kenya Primary School Athletics Competition. This year’s theme is; Nurturing Talents through Values and Competencies for Self-Fulfilment.
Speaking during the opening ceremony held at Giakanja Boys Secondary School Nyeri County, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga who was the Chief Guest called the Government to complete the Ruring’u stadium so that Schools Athletic Championship can be taking place there.
He added that the County Government of Nyeri through the Department of Gender, Youth and Sports and Department of Education and Training are working closely with other stakeholders such as KPSSA, Ministry of Education, and KEPSHA among others to enhance the success of this national event.
Over 800 students drawn from the whole Country have congregated at the school for the spectacular display of talent and sportsmanship. Under the stewardship of the Kenya Primary School Sports Association (KPSSA), the competitions have drawn students from all the 8 regions: Western, Nyanza, Coast, Central, North Eastern, Eastern, Nairobi and Rift Valley.
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga addressing athletics championship participants at Giakanja Secondary School
The Athletics Competition, which began on Wednesday and will continue for three days, will feature track and field events alongside cross country. The Kids Athletics category for children aged 8-12 includes the under 12’s team participating in cross country at 1200 meters.
Regional Director of Education Sabina Aroni, County Director of Education Jane Njogu, National Chair of KPSSA Ben Ochieng, and KPSSA Secretary General Maimai Etiang among other were also present.
The Regional Director of Education Sabina Aroni said Nyeri County is privileged and honored to host the championship saying that the role of games and sports in the social economic development of the society cannot be overemphasized and that it has both private and social benefits. Hence, she said games and sports enhances healthy, physical development in children by creating opportunities to exercise.
Aroni added that in the curriculum (CBC) Sports and Art have been given greater prominence with a distinct pathway provided for a senior school. This she said therefore means that those participating in the championship are undergoing practical lessons in physical education/games and sports.
She noted that considering that all games and sporting activities have strict rules and regulations, participation promotes a high degree of discipline.
BY KNA