Athletics Kenya (AK) and the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) have resolved a scheduling conflict to enable student athletes to participate in the African junior and youth championships, according to a statement from AK's youth affairs committee chairman.
The Ministry of Education adjusted school calendars to allow primary and secondary students to attend national trials for the under-18 and under-20 categories, which will take place at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani from March 20 to 22. This adjustment ensures that school athletes can compete in the African championships scheduled for Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, from April 13 to 20.
Barnaba Korir, AK's youth affairs committee chairman, emphasized the importance of collaboration between athletics bodies and schools. 'The Ministry of Education's decision to shift school dates is a significant step forward,' he said. 'Without student athletes, our team for the African championships would have been weak.'
Regional championships in Western and Nyanza provinces, originally set for March 20-24, have been rescheduled to March 18-21 to align with the national trials. This marks the first time AK's athletics calendar has overlapped with school events, as the sport was moved from term two to term one.
Athletics Kenya deputy treasurer Kimoni Kisalu highlighted the need for continued dialogue between stakeholders. 'The country's sporting future depends on youth engagement,' he said. 'We must find solutions that benefit all parties involved.'
