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.