The tournament for Amashuri Kagame Cup 2024 has reached its semi-final stages as schools in their respective districts compete for the trophy.

In Rusizi district, GS Saint Paul Muko beat Petit Seminaire Saint Alloys in the basketball games held at GS Gihundwe. Respectively, GS Gishoma won GS Saint Paul Muko.

These games marked the kick-off of the semi-final league which will be held at the district level. On this level, the best schools in Rusizi district will be playing with Nyamasheke in their first leg.

The tournament which combines different game genres is named after President Paul Kagame to honor his sponsorship and love of sports.

Emmanuel Mukeshimana, the Head of the Association de Sport Scolaire in the Rusizi district told The Campus that the tournament seeks to foster talents in all levels of education.

“We are in the national-level championships in a league organized by the Federation of School Sports. We want to promote sports and talents across different levels both in Primary, Secondary schools, Ordinary and Advanced level” he said.

Mukeshimana urged parents and authorities to support children not only academically but also in sports, emphasizing the importance of balancing both aspects, noting that it fosters discipline and greatly benefits students.

“Parents should understand that sports play a significant role in an individual's overall well-being and family dynamics.

Our children must both study and engage in sports parents need to recognize that their child's participation in sports fosters their development and helps them develop academically,” he said.

“It's important to realize that sports teach valuable life skills. Therefore, while we prioritize education, it's essential to continue supporting our students. Parents, along with government and community organizations, are encouraged to invest in our children here,” he further expressed.

Still on the emphasis of sports promotion, Mukeshimana emphasized that sports are beneficial for students noting that the activities help them not get iddle and improve classroom performances.

“A child who discovers a talent for sports experiences a boost in morale, resilience, and enhanced ability to learn. Engaging in sports activities on weekends rejuvenates children aiding in their overall mental development,” he said.

“Children who participate in sports often excel, they are the ones who emerge as the best performers,” he continued.

On the other hand, Placcide Rukundo, the Head of Students Discipline, GS Gishoma congratulated his team after winning Girl’s basketball game over GS Saint Paul Muko from Bugarama.

“It's truly satisfying to GS Saint Paul Muko. We presented a formidable challenge and as seen with our victory, we prevailed. I extend my gratitude to my team,” he said.