Educationists and school proprietors have called for greater support in developing school sports at the primary and secondary levels, emphasizing the need for both public and private sector involvement.
The proprietress of Subtle Kids School in Akute, Ogun State, Alhaja Oluwatoyin Latunde, urged increased investment in school sports to harness the nation’s vast potential in athletics and human capital development. Speaking at the second Biennial Inter-House Sports Competition of the school, Latunde highlighted the financial and infrastructural challenges that school owners face in nurturing young sporting talents.
“There is still a lot to do to develop school sports. Our students have longed for a platform to showcase their talents. Most schools lack proper sporting fields and resources to support students, as they are already focused on STEM and vocational education,” she said.
She called for a strategic policy from the ministries of education and sports to ensure the availability of sporting fields and competitions to aid talent discovery. As a member of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Ogun State Chapter, she noted efforts made within the association to contribute to school sports development.
Similarly, the proprietress of Riverside Schools, Mrs. Adewuyi Oladunni, stressed the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to develop school sports while ensuring academic excellence.
Meanwhile, the Inter-House Sports Competition saw Blue House emerge as the overall winner, securing 26 medals. Red House followed closely with 24 medals, Green House claimed 22, while Yellow House finished with 10 medals. Red House also won in the March Past category with 136 points.
Favour Happiness was named the Best Athlete of the Year and received a medal and trophy from Latunde, who praised her outstanding performance.
The event featured 24 race segments, including a 4x100m relay race that saw participation from guest schools such as Arits Private School, Dudley Reeves School, and Four Crown Private School. Parents also took part in friendly competitions, adding excitement to the occasion.
Notable attendees included Alhaji Latunde, Mrs. Adewuyi Oladunni of Riverside Schools, Mrs. Owolabi of Proficient Children Academy, Mr. Afolabi of Almighty Elect Schools, and numerous parents who came to support the young athletes.
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