By Emmanuel Ladi, Ho
The 45th Volta Inter-Schools Central Zone Sports Festival has launched in Ho, the Volta Regional capital, bringing together 25 government and private schools for a week-long competition.
Athletes and players will vie for trophies across disciplines including athletics, football, volleyball, netball, handball, table tennis, and basketball. Top performers will advance to represent the zone at the upcoming inter-zonal event in Nkwanta, Oti Region.
At the opening ceremony, Volta Regional Director of Education, Madam Enyonam Amafuga, emphasized the vital role of physical education in holistic development. “Physical education and sports remain important subjects that provide holistic intervention for developing the cognitive and physical aspects of the body,” she stated. “The pivot of every human development is anchored on a healthy body, so it is crucial to engage frequently in activities that keep it healthy.”
Madam Amafuga recommended at least 30 minutes of brisk walking three times a week to maintain vitality and avoid fatigue. She noted the region’s proud history of national sporting excellence but lamented a “steady decline in recent times due to challenges facing sports development.” Urging collective support to boost sports for socio-economic growth, she called on participants to “give off their best, comport themselves, and desist from immoral acts.”
Zonal Secretary Mr. Kofi Emmanuel Atiso echoed the call for discipline, advising schools and players to uphold high standards of behavior on and off the field during the event.
The festival opened with an exciting match where Saint Prosper’s College defeated Shia Senior High School 1-0.
Sponsorship came from Ho Municipal Chief Executive Mr. Nelson Akorli and Accra Brewery Limited, producers of Beta Malt and other beverages.