Beyond School Games: St. Anthony’s Kitale and Butere Girls Score Big in KCSE 2023
St. Anthony’s Kitale and Butere Girls, the reigning Kenya Secondary School national football champions, have once again demonstrated their excellence.
Recently, they achieved outstanding results in the 2023 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination, with St. Anthony’s securing an impressive school mean of 10.5 and Butere recording 9.1, earning them the top spot in Kakamega county.
This success follows their earlier triumphs in the KSSSA boys and girls titles, capturing national attention.
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Contrary to the prevailing notion that outstanding athletes may lack academic prowess, these schools challenge that stereotype by consistently excelling in both sports and academics.
The adage “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy” is more relevant than ever, as studies consistently reveal a positive correlation between sports and academic performance.
Scientific evidence highlights the various health benefits associated with physical activity, including improvements in bone health, cognitive function, cardiovascular fitness, and psychosocial well-being.
Researchers have explored the intricate relationship between physical activity, fitness, and academic achievement. Studies suggest that enhancing physical fitness and activity levels can positively impact academic performance, particularly in subjects like reading and mathematics.
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The development of executive function, essential for these subjects, is influenced by exercise and physical fitness.
Brain health and cognitive function, foundational to academic success, are facilitated by basic cognitive processes linked to attention and memory—processes strengthened by physical activity.
Both short-term and long-term physical activity contribute to improved brain health and cognitive function, with vigorous or moderate engagement providing the most benefits.
Recognizing the significance of physical activity in learning, schools should prioritize developmentally appropriate breaks for students. Moreover, having physically active teachers in the classroom can positively impact students’ focus and attention to detail.
While celebrating these achievements, it is crucial for schools to eliminate unnecessary entry barriers that may hinder students with potential in both academics and sports.
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Some institutions, by raising entry marks during football trials, may inadvertently exclude deserving students who could excel in both areas. A more inclusive approach is essential to nurture well-rounded individuals who can thrive in both academic and athletic pursuits.
Beyond School Games: St. Anthony’s Kitale and Butere Girls Score Big in KCSE 2023