The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE) has announced a sweeping ban on all inter-house sporting activities in public parks and venues, citing repeated incidents that have disrupted academic schedules, created public disturbances, and exposed students to unsafe environments.

The directive, which takes effect immediately, applies to all public and private schools across the country, including popular public spaces in Serrekunda East and West, Banjul, Brikama, and other towns.

MoBSE said the ban is necessary to ensure that school competitions are conducted in a safe and controlled environment.

Under the new rules, inter-house sports must now take place strictly within school grounds.

Schools without adequate facilities are required to coordinate with nearby institutions to access suitable fields or sporting venues.

Participation will be strictly limited to students enrolled in the organizing school, and no external participants will be allowed.

The Ministry noted that recent incidents during inter-house competitions had caused public disturbances, infringed on community spaces, and, in some cases, put students at risk of injuries.

“We have observed a growing trend of unacceptable behaviors during these events, including crowd mismanagement, fights among students, and unsanctioned use of public areas, which cannot continue,” the directive stated.

Regional Education Directorates have been instructed to ensure full compliance and are empowered to take necessary measures to enforce the ban. Schools found violating the directive may face disciplinary action or other penalties as deemed appropriate by MoBSE.

MoBSE emphasized that the move is not intended to limit students’ opportunities for sports but to protect their welfare and maintain academic focus.

The Ministry assured that once schools have adequate facilities or appropriate arrangements, inter-house sports could resume safely on school premises.

In conclusion, MoBSE reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding student welfare, maintaining academic integrity, and ensuring that extracurricular activities, including sports, are conducted in a disciplined, secure, and structured environment.

By Adama Makasuba