Physical Activity Boosts Academic Performance
Minister for Youth and Sports Laisenia Tuitubou has reiterated that increasing physical activity and physical fitness improves academic performance. Speaking at the commissioning of the Vanuavou Primary School grounds in Vaturova, Cakaudrove Province yesterday, Mr Tuitubou said it was important set aside a time during the school day for physical education classes or a physical activity during a curriculum. “Some academics and researchers have also concluded that mathematics and reading are the subjects that are most positively influenced by physical activity,” Mr Tuitubou said. Mr Tuitubou said teachers knew that children who participated in vigorous or moderate and intense physical activity benefitted the most.
He said from the amount of time allocated for learning, students should also be provided some time for physical activity.
“Physical education gives more opportunity at an early age to develop hand-eye co-ordination, muscle and skeleton development, balance, respect, team spirit for all young people.
This includes those with special educational needs and disabilities.
It is also a key to promoting healthy living thus fostering a healthy Fiji.”
Mr Tuitubou said his Ministry promoted school-based sports programmes and it brings about out noticeable positive development and behaviour in students.
“I want to reiterate that sports and physical activity are essential to preventing illness and combating non-communicable diseases to promote mental wellbeing, combat bullying, improve academic results as well as build social cohesion. Teachers and schools need to be agents of this change.”