The first book of Physical Education in Mauritius

In line with introducing Physical Education (PE) as an examinable subject at School Certificate (SC) level, the first book of Physical Education Lower Secondary was launched by Dr Vasant Bunwaree, minister of Education and Human Resources on Thursday at Mahatma Gandhi Institute (MGI), Moka.

Several eminent personalities including Suren Dayal, chief whip of the government, Ravin Dwarka, chairman of MGI/RTI Council among others were present on the occasion.

Presently, 180 students from 14 schools have opted for this subject at SC level. It is a pilot project which will be extended to all secondary schools next year.

The education minister pointed out that there is a lack of PE educators in schools and he wants to ensure that there are at least one or two PE teachers in each school.

“PE is now a subject which candidates can offer at SC level. We are also offering it as from next year at the Lower Secondary at the advanced subsidiary level,” stated Dr Bunwaree.

He added, “The book will be helpful to our learners not only to become more aware of the importance of physical education for health but also to develop the habit of leading a more balanced life in which book-learning and physical education go hand in hand”.

This book is a laudable initiative of three young authors including Manish Achameesing, manager in a private sports and leisure centre, Zameer Janoo, sports officer at Ministry of Youth and Sports and Rishi Sowamber, head of department of Physical Education (PE) at MGSS, Moka.

For Achameesing, the book has been completed after intensive research and efforts and Book 2 and 3 are currently in the pipeline. Sowamber said that the book which consists of diagrams and colourful drawings will prove to be a very resourceful tool for the SC students as it is consistent with the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) syllabus of the University of Cambridge.

The book will be exported to African countries, Singapore and Malaysia.