Power of sport as a social cohesion tool

In his address to the Social Cohesion Summit earlier this morning, President Jacob Zuma said government is now investing in school sports more than ever before, as a result of the value of sports in nation building. He said the school sport budget has been increased from 27.3 million rand from the previous year’s R 42.6 million. “Compatriots, this year marks the 20th anniversary of South Africa’s readmission into international sport in general and Olympics in particular. We all know the power of sport as a social cohesion tool.” The President acknowledged the contribution of stalwarts such as the late Steve Tshwete, Sam Ramsamy, Dennis Brutus and Josiah Thugwane for repositioning South Africa in the international family of sport and recreation.

Zuma said government had invested more than R31 million to help Team SA prepare for London

He said so far about 11 000 out of 27 000 schools have been registered for participation in the 2012 School Sport Leagues and Competitions. “We are doing this because the production of future Olympic gold medalists must start in our schools, including the disadvantaged schools in predominantly black residential areas in urban and rural areas,” he said. Zuma congratulated all the athletes and teams that have already qualified for the 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic Games. He said government had invested more than R31 million to help Team SA prepare for London. “We wish all of them well and will be fully behind them as they represent the rainbow nation!,” said Zuma.

– By Esther Kalu