Soroti targets national trophy after successful primary schools athletics trials

The Soroti District Education and Sports Department on Monday successfully organised the primary schools' athletics competitions at Soroti City Sports Ground, attracting enthusiastic participation from learners under the ages of 12 and 14.

The vibrant co-curricular event featured a variety of athletic disciplines, including long jump, high jump, 60-meter sprint, relays, and discus, for both boys and girls.

The one-day gathering aimed at identifying competent runners who will represent Soroti District Local Government during the national primary schools and para-games championship scheduled for May 4 to 14, 2026, in Tororo Municipality.

Presiding over the competition, Anthony Oyuru, chairperson of Education and Health, underscored the importance of nurturing young talents. He emphasized that co-curricular activities are a key part of government policy aimed at holistic education.

He further urged the athletes to remain disciplined if they are to achieve commendable results.

"Discipline is key in sports. Without discipline, there is no sport in you. Be disciplined for your success in sports," said Oyuru.

John Micheal Okiror, Soroti District Inspector of Schools, said the competing athletes were selected from across the 11 sub-counties and one town council that form the district.

Okiror appreciated the role of parents and schools in supporting the potential athletes.

"The athletes selected here are expected to carry the hopes of Soroti District Local Government as they showcase their abilities on the national stage," said Okiror.

Richard Etidu, Soroti District Inspector of Schools, said a total of 32 athletes,  24 mainstream and 8 with special needs, will represent the district during the championship.

According to Etidu, the national competition serves as exposure for the learners and will inspire even more investment in sports at the grassroots level.

Joseph Aurut, Soroti District Primary School Sports Association official, is hopeful that Soroti District will this time win the national overall trophy, which Arua District won in 2025 in Kabale Municipality.

Over 6,000 pupils from 171 local governments are expected to gather in Tororo for the National Kids Athletics Championship, organized by the Uganda Primary Schools Sports Association in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Sports.

Mike Nalugoda, the second vice president of UPSSA, noted that track events, field competitions, and jumps are the main activities featured in the championship.