From the Classroom to the Playing Field: Salaga Youth Celebrate Learning Through Sport

Hundreds of young people in Salaga benefited from a unique blend of sport, education and health awareness as the Savannah Regional Rugby Association (SRRA) hosted the third edition of the Rugby Rising Play Regional Festival at Iddrisiya JHS.

While rugby provided the platform, the festival’s biggest victory was the knowledge and inspiration shared with students from five schools across the Savannah Region. Participants from St. Peter’s JHS, Al Mustabshira JHS, Saedia JHS, Iddrisiya JHS and Salaga Secondary School engaged in activities designed to prepare them for success both inside and outside the classroom.

Students received guidance on leadership, discipline, academic excellence and personal development from educators and youth mentors. The sessions encouraged young people to see education as a pathway to achieving their goals, while also using sport as a tool for building confidence and character.

A major highlight of the day was a health awareness programme led by Braimah Soale Zelia, Senior Midwifery Officer at Salaga Municipal Hospital. The session addressed important issues including menstrual health, personal hygiene and teenage pregnancy prevention, equipping students with practical information to make informed decisions about their well-being.

The festival also launched the Rugby Rising Play Essay and Creative Art Competition, giving students an opportunity to express their creativity and showcase their talents beyond the sporting arena.

Speaking after the event, organisers described the festival as a powerful example of how sport can bring communities together while addressing critical social and educational issues affecting young people.

The success of the programme was made possible through the efforts of SRRA President Nurudeen Miran, Vice President Mr. Bright, Secretary Madam Rukaya, health professionals, teachers and participating schools. Mr. Bright also touched hearts with the donation of a school uniform to a deserving student.

Supported by the Ghana Rugby Football Union, Rugby Africa and World Rugby, the Rugby Rising Play initiative continues to make a positive impact in communities across Ghana, proving that sport can be much more than a game it can be a vehicle for education, empowerment and lasting change.