In a groundbreaking development, Kenya has been officially granted the privilege to host the 2024 ISF World School Cross Country Championships. This event, marked by a significant milestone, saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Kenyan government and the International School Sport Federation (ISF). Set to unfold from May 10th to 15th at Nairobi’s prestigious Ngong Race Course, the global competition will bring together youthful athletes aged 12-18 from over 134 countries.
At the Ministry of Education headquarters in Jogoo House, Kipchumba Maiyo, the chairman of the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA), and Laurent Petrynka, the President of ISF, formally signed the MoU. Education CS Ezekiel Machogu, along with Principal Secretary for Basic Education Dr. Belio Kipsang, witnessed the ceremony. Their collective enthusiasm underscored not just an event but a global sporting extravaganza of significant importance.
Ezekiel Machogu, the CS for Education, expressed gratitude to ISF for entrusting Kenya with the responsibility of hosting the championships. He confirmed that it was a task taken seriously by the government. Emphasizing a unified approach within one administration, Machogu assured both ISF and KSSSA that the Ministry of Education would spare no effort in partnership with other entities to deliver a championship worthy of global standards.
Proudly emphasizing, “Kenya’s education reform integrates sports into the curriculum, offering talented youth an opportunity to nurture their skills and potentially forge a career in athletics.” Hosting such a prestigious event aligns significantly with Kenya’s rich athletic history, further solidifying its global position as a sports powerhouse.
Laurent Petrynka, the President of ISF, voiced satisfaction over the demonstrated commitment from the Kenyan government. He not only recognized the successful signing of all agreements but also verified that ISF felt contentment with the unwavering support provided by this administration. Further to this, Petrynka asserts that it is his firm belief that through hosting such an event, Kenya will augment its already storied athletic legacy.
In addition to the competitive aspect, the organizers plan to infuse cultural activities into the championship. This thoughtful initiative aims at providing participating delegations with opportunities for cultural exchange and fostering a more profound understanding of their respective countries.
Notable figures in the sports arena, including Lt (Rtd) General Jackson Tuwei, the head of Athletics Kenya, and Hassan Duale, Director of Field Coordination and Co-Curricular Activities, graced the signing ceremony with their presence. The presidents from Uganda, Rwanda, as well as Tanzania’s Federation of East Africa Secondary Schools Sports Associations (FEASSSA), also attended.