The Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) National Term Two Games commenced on Sunday in Thika, spotlighting the importance of integrity, fair officiating, and strict eligibility rules.
More than 5,000 student-athletes from all 47 counties gathered to vie for national honours and qualification to the East African School Games. The week-long event is hosted at the M-Pesa Foundation Academy and other venues across Thika.
Emphasis on Fairness and Eligibility
During the official opening, education officials, teachers, and sports administrators underscored the need for transparent competition. They called on referees, judges, coaches, and players to maintain high standards throughout the championships.
- John Ololtuaa, Basic Education Principal Secretary, urged all participants to respect competition rules and preserve the event's integrity, emphasizing the need for a peaceful and controversy-free environment.
- Dr. Elyas Abdi Jillaow, Director-General for Basic Education, highlighted enhanced vetting processes to curb age cheating and ineligible players. He noted that some regional champions had already been disqualified for breaching eligibility criteria.
- Robert Kimani, a teacher from Thika High School, supported these efforts, encouraging unbiased officiating and urging coaches to field only eligible students. He revealed that some teams competing were replacements following disqualifications.
Calls for Greater Support for Young Athletes
Moses Thogo, KUPPET Kiambu Executive Secretary, appealed to government and private stakeholders to increase investment in young sports talent. He pointed out the lack of scholarships and sponsorships causes many gifted athletes to fade from the sporting scene after school.
The national championships will continue throughout the week, attracting thousands of spectators, teachers, and sports officials. The event also serves as a platform for talent scouts seeking Kenya’s next generation of sporting stars.
