Organisers of the National Primary Schools Athletic Championships (NAPSAC) have been assured that the Ministry of Education, Technological and Vocational Training will continue to support the games founded some 20 years ago.
The assurance came today from Deputy Chief Education Officer (DCEO), Joy Adamson as she addressed the 2022 NAPSAC Icon Reveal & Zonal Draw at the Wildey Gymnasium, Wildey St. Michael.
Mrs. Adamson, speaking on behalf of Minister Kay McConney, said the Ministry was pleased to continue supporting the efforts of NAPSAC’s Executive Committee in providing students with an environment to engage in physical activity and healthy lifestyles, while allowing an opportunity to demonstrate their athletic abilities.
Emphasising that the COVID-19 pandemic was a reminder that change was always constant, the DCEO noted that as the championships continued to evolve these changes were seen today in the expansion of the zones from five to eight and would see “a new chapter in its journey”.
She also commended the NAPSAC committee for its ability to adapt during the difficult times, ensuring a safe environment for students to participate in the championships, and increasing the number of zones to better manage the schools involved.
Mrs. Adamson stressed: “We are all aware that education and sports go hand in hand. When many of our young people graduate to higher ranks they benefit from many scholarship opportunities. It is therefore important for us to keep the foundation strong as the students transition.
“We must also express the hope that by choosing new icons we will continue to inspire future generations of our young girls and boys to aim high, as they too can reach the goals and aspirations that they set for themselves and chart their own legacy.”
Today’s ceremony saw the naming of three new zones after three NAPSAC sports icons – Marcia Trotman, Ryan Brathwaite, and Frieda Nicholls.
Alluding to these icons, the DCEO said: “Having positive examples such as sporting excellence through these icons is critical to the creation of a dynamic and effective sporting culture, and therefore, we as a country must all support these entities who ultimately encourage our young people to be the productive and discipline citizens.”
Meanwhile, primary school students participating in this year’s athletics were urged to enjoy the opportunity and seize the moment.
“Take a minute to appreciate all of the work that is being done on your behalf and take full advantage of every activity throughout this athletic season,” Mrs. Adamson advised.
The championships will this year see 85 public and private primary schools participating in eight zones. Get Moving Day Events will begin on March 14 and end on March 23, while Cross Country Relays, at the Usain Bolt Stadium, will begin on May 10 and conclude on May 13.