Huambo: Angolan Minister of Education ‚¬°rica de Carvalho Aires on Monday highlighted the role of the School Games in developing character, discipline, responsibility, solidarity, and a sense of belonging to the nation. The minister was speaking at the opening of the national stage of the 14th edition of the School Games, which has brought together 1,500 participants from the country's 21 provinces in Huambo. She described the School Games as more than a sporting competition, saying they form an extension of the educational process and an instrument for promoting the comprehensive development of pupils.
According to Angola Press News Agency, through sport, students learn to respect rules, work as a team, accept victories with humility, and face defeats with courage. She added that by representing their schools and provinces, student-athletes assume a responsibility that goes beyond winning medals, as they carry with them the efforts of their teachers, the support of their families, the trust of their peers, and the hopes of their communities.
The minister urged participants to compete with determination and respect while observing the rules and principles of sportsmanship. She said an athlete's true greatness is measured not only by the medals won, but also by their conduct, discipline, and ability to overcome challenges. ‚¬°rica de Carvalho stressed the need for the School Games to help identify and develop new talent, some of whom could eventually represent Angola in international competitions.
She acknowledged the work of physical education teachers, coaches, and technical officials, as well as the support provided by parents and guardians, referees, organizers, and institutional and private-sector partners. She said the holding of the 14th edition of the School Games was a concrete expression of the Government's commitment to a more comprehensive and inclusive education.
The minister expressed the hope that the competition would be a celebration of school sport, education, talent, and national unity, with emphasis on respect, discipline, inclusion, and team spirit. The event, which runs until 28 August under the theme 'School sport - forging talent and respecting diversity', has brought together 1,500 participants, including student-athletes aged between 12 and 16, teachers, referees, heads of delegation, and technical teams.
