Benin: Djougou at the heart of the 25th edition of the national primary school championships

The opening ceremony was presided over by the Minister of Maternal and Primary Education, Armand Kuyema Natta, alongside the Minister of Secondary Education and Vocational Training, Clément Kouchadé, and the ministerial adviser Paulin Gbenou. Representatives from the Ministry of Sports and Civic Education, the mayor of Djougou, the prefect of Donga, the Director General of the Benin Office of School and University Sports (OBSSU), as well as traditional, religious, and educational authorities also participated in the event.

In his speech, Armand Kuyema Natta emphasized the importance of sport and culture in children’s education. According to him, sporting activities in schools contribute to the development of students’ physical and social skills while playing a role in shaping responsible citizens.

The competition runs until Thursday, August 20. Beyond sports results and artistic performances, the organizers want to highlight values such as discipline, tolerance, respect for opponents, fair play, and acceptance of the judges’ and referees’ decisions.

A competition centered around civic values

The Minister of Maternal and Primary Education invited participants to aim for performance while preserving the collective spirit of the gathering. He presented the championships as a framework aimed at fostering unity, camaraderie, and brotherhood among students from different departments.

This edition is based on the coordination of several administrations and local stakeholders. The minister praised the work of the leaders and supervisors of UASCEP, as well as the support from the ministries responsible for Sports, Secondary Education, Health, and the Interior.

The departmental and municipal authorities of Donga, OBSSU, parents, traditional and religious leaders, and partners involved in the organization were also thanked for their contribution to the event.