In a bid to promote holistic development among learners, the First Lady and Minister for Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Museveni, has urged schools to prioritize playtime for students.
Her call came during the launch of the National Play Day at the Kololo Independence Grounds, a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Education and Sports, UNICEF Uganda, Plan International, and other stakeholders.
The inaugural National Play Day was themed “Play Based Learning From Early Years to Support Lifelong Learning and Development.”
In her address, Hon. Janet Museveni commended the collaborative efforts of various organizations and partners involved in organizing the National Play Day. She emphasized the importance of understanding the concept of play and its profound benefits for children, especially in a context where many have experienced the hardships of conflict and war.
Reflecting on Uganda’s tumultuous history, Hon. Janet Museveni highlighted the significance of providing children with a nurturing environment conducive to their overall well-being.
She stressed the crucial role of play in shaping children’s cognitive, emotional, and social development, underscoring its contribution to fostering essential life skills and values.
The Minister emphasized that the National Play Day serves as a formal reminder of the importance of preserving childhood and promoting children’s right to play. She underscored that play is not merely recreational but an integral aspect of children’s learning and growth, influencing their moral, spiritual, and emotional intelligence.
