Participation of learners in Swaziland school sports

Abstract

Active participation in structured physical activity at school as presented in physical education and school sport renders multiple benefits. However, access to such practices is not a given in developing countries where structural obstacles remain. This study explores the participation of
learners in Swaziland school sport. A survey was used with 80 schools included in a representable sample selected through stratified random sampling, representing an overall response rate of 86.2%. A total of 66 teachers, 68 head teachers and 405 learners returned completed questionnaires. Data sets were analysed through thematic codes (qualitative data) and descriptive statistical analysis (quantitative data). Only 21.2% of learners participate in school sport, with athletics, soccer and netball being the main sport codes. Most learners (93%) have a
positive attitude towards sport. Lack of facilities was viewed as the main limiting factor for participation in sport. The Ministry of Education and Training could improve school sport through getting a buy-in from head teachers, human resource development and physical resource
development.