Staff Reporter
Ijuumo Progressive Secondary School from Mitooma District was crowned the champion of Kyambogo University’s first annual sports gala over the weekend.
The competition, which attracted 13 schools from the Greater Bushenyi region, culminated in a final match held at Bushenyi District’s main stadium in Bushenyi Ishaka Municipality. Ijuumo Progressive Secondary School defeated Ruyonza School from Bushenyi District 1-0.
“We gave it our all because we wanted to show the world the talent at Ijuumo Progressive Secondary School. The boys did exactly what I told them, and now we are champions. We aim to maintain this form until next year,” said Brian Mugumya, the head coach of Ijuumo Progressive Secondary School.
In the girls’ final, Shuuku Vocational School from Sheema District beat Ntare High School, also from Sheema, 5-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regular time.
Other schools that participated in the four-day tournament held at Bushenyi District Main Stadium included Kyeitembe Vocational Secondary School, Mungonya Secondary School, Rwakatende Secondary School, and Pioneer High School.
Mr. Agrey Rugambana, the director of Ntare High School in Sheema District, commented on their loss in the final against Shuuku Vocational, stating that players failed to execute the plan, especially in the second half, as the team created many chances but failed to convert them. “We failed to execute our mission and our chances too, and we paid the price. Next time, we will handle it better,” he said.
Prof. Elly Katunguka, the Vice-Chancellor of Kyambogo University, emphasized the importance of sports in helping learners discover their full potential. He urged parents to encourage their children to participate in various sports, not just football. “At Kyambogo University, we have produced excellent sportsmen for this country, including national teams, in various fields. Organizing such events and allowing young people to showcase their talents is a priority for us as an institution,” he said.
Ms. Jackie Abenaitwe, the administrator of Kyambogo University’s Bushenyi Learning Center, explained that the sports gala was organized to encourage students to work hard and stay involved in sports for fitness and potential livelihood. “We want these students to work through sports and prepare themselves mentally and physically for higher education institutions,” she said.
