National Physical Education and Sports Policy

Abstract

Physical Education and Sports is an important activity in the process of nation building. The role of sports in society can be summarized as follows: i) Building the physical anatomy of the body for both the young and the old; ii) Promoting teamwork and discipline given that many a sport have strict rules and regulations; and iii) Encouraging patriotism, closer social harmony, and Pan World outlook. Furthermore, sports can be: i) A profession and a source of employment and livelihood; ii) A form of entertainment and amusement; and iii) A form of therapy for some ailments. Physical Education and Sports in Uganda has been under developed in terms of scope and quality. However, with the development of a Physical Education and Sports Policy framework and a Strategic Investment Plan, major obstacles in the allocation of resources for the development of Physical Education and Sports will be overcome. The National Physical Education and Sports Policy has a number of inter-related components focussing on: i) Formal sports skills development; ii) Resources allocation to the sports profession; and iii) Recognition of and awards to excelling national sports men and women. Physical Education and Sports has been developed along lines of formal education. Such education should cover basic theoretical and practical skills of handling different types of sports. It is important for physical education or sports education to be based on comprehensive and relevant curriculum and syllabus. Hence, the need for specialized higher institutions of learning for professional sports to cater for those interested in pursuing sports as a lifelong career and profession. Government will as a matter of principle, provide an appropriate budget for sports. The budget will cater for the educational part as well as rewarding and motivating national sports men and women, who are regarded as a pool of flag bearers who bring pride to the nation. The issue of public accountability and transparency in planning, management and administration of sports is paramount. In this regard, the 1964 National Council of Sports Act will be reviewed with a view of streamlining the institutional aspects paying particular attention to issues of public accountability and transparency in planning, management and administration of sports. Physical education and sports therefore, plays an important role in the development of a society in general and an individual in particular. For the individual, active participation in physical education and sports leads to enhanced health, high productivity, wide social interaction and entertainment as well as high discipline. Hence, physical education and sports is an effective tool towards creating a healthy, united, democratic and productive nation.