Lesotho Hosts Sub-Regional Forum on Physical Education and Sport Development

On October 16, 2025, the Ministry of Tourism, Sports, Arts and Culture, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Training, AUSC Region 5, and UNESCO, hosted a sub-regional forum focusing on the transformative role of quality physical education and sport in shaping the region’s future.

Minister of Education, Professor Ntoi Rapapa, stressed the importance of integrating physical education into national education systems. He noted that aligning local policies with UNESCO’s global priorities and the African Union Sport Council’s objectives is essential for sustainable youth development.

Professor Rapapa highlighted the need to increase sports budgets, particularly at grassroots levels, and called for innovative financing to develop modern sports facilities. He emphasized that broadening access to quality physical education requires strong collaboration, effective monitoring systems, and policy reforms that ensure equity for all children.

The Minister also discussed challenges faced by youth, including substance abuse, social media influence, and fragmented family structures. He noted that structured physical education and sport programs can address these issues, promote social inclusion, and foster community resilience. The forum seeks to institutionalize sports in the curriculum to support youth development and healthy lifestyles.

Partners at the forum reinforced the benefits of physical education in health, human development, and national growth. They highlighted the need for coherent regional frameworks, inclusive curricula, and teacher development programs. They also stressed that sedentary lifestyles among children must be addressed, citing global reports showing that only 30% of countries implement physical education effectively.

Delegates expressed appreciation for the initiative and committed to implementing the forum’s objectives. The gathering is expected to guide policy reform, enhance resource mobilization, and strengthen multi-sector collaboration to ensure equitable access to physical education across the region.

This forum marks a significant step in promoting youth health, social cohesion, and community development through structured sports and physical education programs in Lesotho and the wider region.