Staff Reporter NAMIBIA has launched the School Sports for Development (SS4D) Programme aimed at using sport as a tool to promote education, social inclusion and the development of life skills among learners. The programme, launched in Windhoek by the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture in collaboration with UNICEF Namibia, is implemented under the Integrated Physical Education and School Sports (IPESS) policy. Speaking at the launch, Vice President Lucia Witbooi said the initiative represents a national commitment to developing young Namibians with the skills, values and resilience needed to contribute to the country’s future. --- Photos: Vice President of Namibia (Facebook) --- She said investing in children remains one of the most important investments Namibia can make, particularly as the country advances its development goals under Vision 2030 and the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6). “Education must be understood in its broadest sense. While academic achievement remains essential, the development of a well-rounded individual requires equal attention to physical well-being, emotional intelligence, social competence, leadership and character formation,” Witbooi said. She added that sport plays a strategic role in building healthier and more confident young people by promoting teamwork, discipline, leadership and responsible decision-making. The SS4D programme seeks to ensure that all learners, regardless of gender, ability, background or geographical location, have access to quality physical education and meaningful sporting opportunities. Witbooi said the initiative was developed in recognition of the need for a more coordinated and inclusive approach to school sport, ensuring that learners across the country benefit from its educational and developmental value. The programme is aligned with the Integrated Physical Education and School Sport Policy, which is built on key areas including inclusive participation, quality physical education, governance strengthening, capacity building, infrastructure development, talent identification and partnerships. The Vice President commended the Ministry, UNICEF and other development partners for their collaboration, saying coordinated efforts are essential to creating environments where learners can reach their full potential. “Together, we are building healthier, more confident and empowered young citizens who will contribute meaningfully to Namibia’s development and prosperity,” she said. The launch marks Namibia’s continued efforts to strengthen school sport as a platform for youth empowerment, healthy lifestyles and national development. The post Namibia launches school sports programme to promote youth development appeared first on Informanté.