The Cross River State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), has held the Basic Education Schools Sports Zonal Competitions across the three senatorial districts of the state.
The competitions, which took place simultaneously at the U.J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar; Ikom Township Stadium, Ikom; and Ogoja Township Stadium, Ogoja, brought together pupils from basic education schools to compete in various sporting activities.
The Director of Academic Services, Mrs. Caroline Ana, said the event provided an avenue for pupils to demonstrate their sporting abilities while promoting physical fitness, teamwork, discipline, healthy competition and the discovery of young sporting talents across the state.
Mrs. Ana noted that the occasion was not only about identifying the best athletes but also a celebration of health, teamwork and fair play. She emphasized that sports form an important part of basic education, as pupils learn valuable lessons on cooperation, handling defeat with grace and rising above challenges.
"These values are essential in building strong character and responsible citizenship," she said.
She encouraged the pupils to give their best, support their colleagues and respect their opponents, stressing that every participant was a champion for showing up and making an effort.
She also acknowledged the contributions of teachers and coaches, appreciating their dedication in guiding, training and encouraging the young talents.
Also speaking, the Director of Teacher Professional Development, Mr. Moses Ozang, emphasized that sports provide opportunities for pupils to develop important life skills beyond what is taught in the classroom.
He explained that through sports, children learn cooperation, resilience and how to handle defeat with grace and rise again after a fall. According to him, these experiences help to build strong character and responsible citizens who will contribute positively to society.
Mr. Ozang encouraged the pupils to compete with confidence, cheer their friends and respect their opponents, stressing that true victory is measured not only by winning but also by effort and determination.
He further urged all participants to ensure that the games remained safe, joyful and fair, while observing the rules guiding the various sporting activities.
Activities featured at the competitions included track and recreational events such as 100-metre, 400-metre and 800-metre races, sack race and javelin, giving pupils the opportunity to demonstrate speed, endurance, agility and sporting talent.
By: Offiong Itang
