Remarks by the UNICEF representative to Uganda on occasion of Uganda’s first ever National Play Day
Our collective aspirations are straightforward: we advocate for Time to Play, Space to Play, and Quality of Play. We urge decision-makers to prioritize policies, training, and funding to integrate play into educational and community settings.
Your Excellency the First Lady of Uganda and Minister of Education and Sports of Uganda
Senior Government Officials
Development Partners
Esteemed Dignitaries,
UN Colleagues,
Members of the Media
Beloved Children, Ladies, and Gentlemen
Dear Friends and Colleagues
I am deeply honoured and privileged to stand before you today on this momentous occasion of the inaugural Uganda National Play Day!
The theme chosen for today’s festivities, "PLAY, where imagination takes flight!", resonates deeply with the profound significance of play in the holistic development of children and in nurturing our collective social and emotional well-being. Investing in Learning through Play interventions across the early childhood, primary, and secondary education stages not only yield substantial benefits in academic achievement but also fosters a sense of joy in learning, with enduring positive impacts.
But what exactly do we mean by "learning through play"? It is when the process of learning becomes a joyful, meaningful, and socially interactive experience that actively engages children, encouraging iterative exploration and discovery. These characteristics form the essence of Learning Through Play!
The transformative power of play extends far beyond academic realms. It serves as a catalyst for healing, enabling children to forge positive relationships crucial for their recovery from trauma and for averting adverse life outcomes. Play cultivates resilience, offering a beacon of hope during crises and providing a pathway to recovery by instilling in children the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to surmount adversity.
Moreover, play instils confidence, fosters communication and collaboration, and advances gender equality by transcending limiting gender norms and stereotypes. It opens a gateway to endless possibilities, enabling children to navigate and comprehend the world around them with curiosity and enthusiasm.
The recent adoption of a resolution designating June 11 as the International Day of Play by the United Nations General Assembly, with over 140 countries as co-sponsors, underscores the global recognition of play's pivotal role in child development. Today, Uganda takes a significant stride forward by inaugurating its own National Play Day!
Our collective aspirations are straightforward: we advocate for Time to Play, Space to Play, and Quality of Play. We urge decision-makers to prioritize policies, training, and funding to integrate play into educational and community settings. We call for investment in diverse, inclusive, and safe play spaces, along with enhanced resources and support for teachers, caregivers, and community facilitators to unlock the transformative potential of play for all children, especially the most vulnerable.
As we commemorate Uganda National Play Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to upholding every child's right to play, ensuring they thrive and fulfil their potential. I commend the Government of Uganda for its dedication and progress in supporting Early Childhood Development and learning through play, and I urge us all to continue our collective efforts towards fostering a peaceful and prosperous society through equitable and quality education.
Today, I am happy to announce that in collaboration with the Government of Uganda and Play Action International, UNICEF has committed to building 72 new playgrounds in ECD centers and schools across Uganda!
UNICEF remains steadfast in its commitment to partnering with the Government of Uganda and stakeholders to advance the transformative agenda of Learning Through Play. Special gratitude is extended to our esteemed partners, including Plan International Uganda, The LEGO Foundation, Education Cannot Wait, and the Danish Government, for their unwavering support. I would also like to take a moment to thank the Faith Based Organizations and over 30 CSO partners who have helped make Play Day possible!
Together, let us shape a future where Uganda's children, both girls and boys, flourish through playful and lifelong learning experiences.
Thank you.
