The Government of Guyana has rolled out “PE Fridays,” [Physical Education] a nationwide initiative encouraging public school students to engage in physical activity every Friday afternoon, in an effort to tackle sedentary behaviour and promote healthier living among children. Education Minister Sonia Parag hailed the enthusiastic response from both teachers and students and described the programme as instrumental in fostering values of teamwork, discipline, and resilience.
“Academics, without a doubt, are important — it’s paramount. But so is being a well‑rounded individual,” Minister Parag said. “You may never know what you possess until you are able to do something different, and that develops from an environment like this.”
The initiative was re-introduced by President Irfaan Ali as a practical commitment to strengthening physical education across all public schools. Notably, physical education was a key part of the curriculum under successive People’s National Congress (PNC) governments but had been significantly scaled back when the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) took office, despite previously criticising the programme while in opposition.
A former school teacher expressed satisfaction that the PPP government now recognises the importance of physical education. He noted that PE plays a critical role in the school curriculum by promoting physical fitness, mental well-being, and social development. By fostering teamwork, discipline, and resilience, physical education helps students develop lifelong healthy habits that support both academic success and personal growth.
The reintroduction of the programme have seen schools along the coast are engaging in activities like football, cricket, and dance, while those in rural regions—such as Sand Creek Secondary in Region Nine—have held archery competitions.
Minister Parag explained that the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) will support the programme through structure and provision of physical training instructors. She emphasized that activities are determined by physical education teachers and coaches, not by the GDF.
The programme comes at a critical time: obesity among children is steadily rising in Guyana. According to data from the World Obesity Federation, 15.7% of children aged 5–19 are projected to be affected by obesity in 2025. Additionally, the prevalence of overweight children under five is estimated at about 5.0%.
Colonel General Staff Kenlloyd Roberts of the GDF clarified: “Our role is limited to providing physical training instructors where necessary, to guide teachers on how to conduct safe and engaging activities.”
The Ministry of Education has committed to maintaining this programme over the next five years, with support embedded in every national budget. Minister Parag expressed optimism that “PE Fridays” will help instill healthier habits and lifestyles among Guyana’s youth, ensuring that children grow up physically capable, socially engaged, and better prepared for life beyond the classroom.
