Benin School Championships Showcase Youth Talent in Sports, Culture

DJОUGOU

Benin education officials emphasized the role of sports and cultural activities in pupils’ development as the country’s 25th National Primary School Championships concluded Thursday in Djougou after four days of competition.

Young athletes from different departments across the country participated in the championships, which began Aug. 17 at the city’s omnisports stadium, according to information published by the Benin government.

The event combined sporting competition with cultural activities, an approach the government said was intended to provide pupils with opportunities to develop their talents while promoting discipline, teamwork, creativity and civic values.

Participants competed in disciplines including football, high jump and endurance. At the closing ceremony, all participating teams received medals, while champions in the various sporting events also received trophies.

In boys’ football, the team representing the Zou and Collines departments won the championship against the team representing Mono and Couffo.

Cultural groups that participated in the championships were also recognized at the end of the event.

Minister of Nursery and Primary Education Armand Kuyema Natta, who attended the closing ceremony, congratulated the participating teams and thanked partners and others involved in organizing the championships.

“We are happy to support young people in their development and the celebration of their talents,” Natta said, according to the government. “Thank you to all the teams involved in the success of this edition. May the celebration be beautiful and see you next year!”

Other attendees included Minister-Counsellor Paulin Gbenou and representatives of the ministry responsible for secondary education and vocational training, the Beninese Office of School and University Sports, the prefect and the mayor of Djougou.

The championships concluded Aug. 20, with the government presenting the event as part of an effort to create a school environment that supports pupils’ development through academics, sports and culture.