Soroti flags off primary school athletes for National Ball Games in Yumbe

Soroti District has officially dispatched its contingent of primary school athletes to represent the region at the National Primary Schools Ball Games, hosted in Yumbe District.

This year’s games, running from August 25 to September 8 at Aringa Secondary School in Yumbe Town Council, are organised by the Ministry of Education and Sports in partnership with the Uganda Primary Schools Sports Association (UPSSA).

The ten-day event brings together teams from across Uganda’s districts, cities, municipalities, and estates.

A vibrant flag-off ceremony was held at Adamasiko Primary School grounds, where 27 young athletes were celebrated in the presence of pupils, teachers, parents, and district leaders.

The selected team will compete in football, volleyball, netball, and handball. Learners in the Special Needs Education (SNE) category will also showcase their talents in inclusive sporting activities.

Soroti District Sports Officer Richard Etidu praised the athletes as “true ambassadors of Kampala,” commending their dedication and resilience.

“Congratulations to our outstanding children who have excelled in their disciplines and earned the chance to represent Kampala nationally. Your achievements bring pride not only to your schools but to the entire city,” Etidu said.

He also highlighted Soroti’s strong track record, noting that district schools successfully defended the national handball trophy during last year’s tournament hosted in Soroti City.

Etidu emphasized the transformative power of education and sports, reaffirming KCCA’s commitment, through the Directorate of Education and Social Services, to nurturing co-curricular activities that instill discipline, resilience, and essential life skills.

Francis Aurut, Organizing Secretary of the Soroti District Primary Schools Sports Association, underscored the role of sports in building confidence, communication, and teamwork among learners.

“Let our learners remain disciplined, uphold Kampala’s values, and seize this opportunity to network and learn from peers across Uganda,” Aurut urged.

Richard Elasu, Chairperson of the Soroti District Primary Schools Games Association, thanked teachers, trainers, and parents for their tireless efforts in nurturing talent within UPE schools. He sent the pupils off with heartfelt encouragement:

“As you set out on this journey, remember that you are the future of Kampala. We believe in your determination and skills, and we trust you will defend our titles in Yumbe.”