Amuria makes co-curriculum activities compulsory in schools

"All work and no play make Jack a dull boy" is a common saying used to refer to the good attributes of exercise to students other than concentrating in academics only.

Through exercise, students who engage in co-curricular activities such as sports discover their talents, while developing values and competencies that will prepare them for the rapidly changing world.

For that reason, co-curricular activities have become compulsory in all private schools in Amuria district, according to Amuria district inspector of schools, Samson Okare Olaki.

"Many private schools do not have other activities outside the classroom, but this time, they have to embrace the programme if they are to remain operational," he said.

Olaki made remarks over the weekend, while officiating Amuria Private schools Association meeting.

He said although private schools were doing a good job to educate the children, they should also help students to develop their talents in area like singing, athletics, volleyball and football.

"Every child has a talent. It is the duty of their teachers to help them develop such that if one fails in class, he can use his or her talent to earn a living" Olaki added.

Co-curricular activities stretch to many areas including debate competitions, answering quiz, science fairs, career fairs, reading newspapers, music and dance, art shows, mock trials and robotics.

Amuria Private schools Association Chairperson Simon Peter Amolo said the program will be applied to all the 106 operating nursery and primary schools in the district.

"I believe all students are gifted differently. One child's calling can be in academics while for the other it could be in singing. As schools, we should plan the timetable accordingly to cater for both kinds of students," Amolo stressed further.