Ministry of Education and Sports expands school sports teams to tackle rising obesity rates
12,000 students are already part of school sports teams. Seeing the high levels of interest and positive benefits to the children’s health, this year, the Ministry of Education and Sports has expanded the National Program for sports teams in educational institutions.
Why is this significant
Excessive use of technology, unhealthy diets, and a lack of physical activity have significantly increased obesity among children in Albania. A 2023 study, using data from the global obesity map, shows that 6.7% of children are obese, and according to this trend, by 2035, 37% of the population could be obese. Therefore, initiatives that promote sports activities are crucial in combating this condition and ensuring healthier children and youth.
Context
In the national team program, children participate in various sports disciplines, but the ones that attract the most interest are football, basketball, and tennis. The standard set in recent years is that every new school in Albania must provide modern sports fields and gyms. For existing schools, investments have been made to ensure that indoor gyms and outdoor sports fields are not missing from their facilities.
Go deeper
President Begaj welcomes new ambassadors of Czech Republic and Hungary
Published on September 19, 2024
EU forms Advisory Committee to accelerate Western Balkans’ membership bid
Published on September 19, 2024
Why is this important
Albanian PM Edi Rama and European Economic and Social Committee President Oliver Röpke announced the initiative at a press conference. Rama stressed, “It brings us a lot of new energy that we have been able to create the Joint Advisory Committee, which is not only proof of our commitment but also of our strong belief that the integration process is not just a matter for the government but for all citizens, including civil society. It allows us to show our citizens and stakeholders, not just through our words but through this institution, how important it is that the path to EU membership is one that involves all of civil society, not just a few actors.”
Berisha threatens journalists amid corruption allegations
Published on September 19, 2024
Why is this significant
Berisha has a long-standing record of targeting critical media and journalists, but his latest threats against those investigating his legal troubles are especially alarming. Issuing such menacing statements while under house arrest raises serious concerns about the lack of judicial oversight. These threats not only undermine press freedom but also pose potential risks to the integrity of the legal process, as they could intimidate witnesses and others involved in his case. The authorities’ apparent tolerance of this behavior is troubling and calls into question the enforcement of judicial conditions.