By Allan Mwanje
WAKISO
Havana House emerged victorious at Pamville Schools’ annual Sports Day, beating rival houses in a day of intense competition that put the school’s young sporting talent on display. Pupils competed in athletics, football, netball, swimming and parade events, testing their skill, discipline and teamwork. Havana finished top with more than 160 points.
But the competition was about more than winning. “We intend to discover more talent from our children,” said Pamera Nalukwago, as the school used the event to advance its motto: “Discovering the gifts of every child.”
Organisers say sports give pupils an opportunity to reveal abilities that may not always emerge in the classroom, while learning the realities of competition
“Our children learn that the world is a competitive space. Nothing is out there without competition,” Nalukwago said.
Several pupils stood out during the competition. Muwanguzi Elisa was named best athlete, while Bunjo Bashira won best Female athlete. Hikimat Rukia was recognised as best netball player, and Kamoga Mark as best football player. Luyinda Ryan and Kirabo Rehema shared the best swimmers award. Muke Jordin was named best parade commander.
The guest of honour, Prime Rita Nanyanzi, District Education Officer for Wakiso, praised Pamville for sustaining the annual competition and urged schools across the district to give sports greater attention. “Children do not only benefit in class but as well talent-wise,” Nanyanzi said.
She argued that academic learning and sport should receive equal attention, pointing to the government’s responsibility for both education and sport. “We have a Ministry of Education and Sport in the same board, meaning schools should indeed look at the two with close and equal attention,” she said.
Nanyanzi also called on parents to nurture children’s talents during school holidays, whether in football, athletics, dancing or other activities.
“If you have seen that your child can do good football, create some time and encourage him or her,” she said. Her appeal extends the responsibility for talent development beyond the school field. Children, she said, need time, encouragement and support from both teachers and parents.
Havana may have taken the trophy, but Pamville’s wider message was about what happens after the celebrations, identifying talent early, giving children room to develop it, and ensuring that sporting ability is treated as part of a child’s education rather than an alternative to it.
