Mohato pupils learn to play

By Emily Setona

QWAQWA – Grade 8 and 9 learners of Mohato Secondary School expressed excitement at the opportunity to play various board games and sports for the first time, as a school outing, they thoroughly enjoyed.

Mohato SS took their grade 8 and 9 learners to Matladi recreational centre on June 14 for a day of playing sports and board games, just to introduce them to different games to inspire discipline, mental and physical wellbeing of the young learners.

“The purpose of the day is for learners to take full part in sports because sports complement the vision and mission of education, which is primarily teaching and learning. We have brought grade 8 and 9 learners who need to learn discipline early on in their high school careers and by playing sports and board games like chess and monopoly, learners learn discipline and hone critical thinking skills. A player cannot win without having discipline in their character,” the principal of the school, Alfred Mosikatsana said.

Mokoena Ntauleng and Thokozile Tshabalala who are both in grade 8 played several of the games and said the school excursion was fun and adding that they enjoyed participating in the sports games particularly hoola hoop and soccer.
“I enjoy playing soccer so today was fun for me because I got to play soccer with some of my classmates. I wish we could have more days like today at our school,” Tshabalala told this publication.

Mohato SS learners at Matladi recreational centre during a school sports day.

A representative of the department of sports arts culture and recreation, Malefane Nkoko, said the aim of this day was to teach learners the value of playing sports and how participating in sporting activities promotes mental and physical wellbeing.

“I am here today to assist Mohato SS to introduce several indigenous games such as morabaraba, skipping and board games like chess and monopoly, alongside soccer, indoor tennis and netball to promote an awareness of sports among these learners.

“We also encourage young people to participate in sports from an early age because it promotes good health so that they are not plagued by chronic illnesses when they are adults,” Nkoko said in an interview with The Guard.