A History of Physical Education in Zambia

• Main Author: Mubita Akatama
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Sciendo 2017-12-01
• Series: Physical Culture and Sport: Studies and Research
• Subjects: physical education; indigenous; colonial; post-independence
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.1515/pcssr-2017-0029

The history of physical education (PE) in Zambia follows the pattern of the history of education in Zambia. Thus, the history of PE in Zambia can be divided into the indigenous period, the colonial period and the post-independence period. “PE” was essential and utilitarian in the indigenous period because it was simply part of the lives of the people at that time. People walked, swam, ran, and were involved in many other forms of physical activity. PE was indispensable. Later, the missionaries provided education to the Africans for the purpose of transmitting the Good News. However, in doing so they rid the Africans of their culture. Africans also wanted to assert themselves in the newly created society and therefore embraced European culture. Eventually, the demand for education grew and many subjects were added including PE. However, while many subjects have enjoyed immense popularity in the country’s curriculum, PE has suffered marginalization. Although the subject was taught in schools supported by the mining companies and in private schools with facilities and infrastructure as well as teacher training institutions, it was not examined. Later, the subject was examined at teacher training colleges and the University of Zambia. From 2005, however, major developments have taken place in the area of PE. President Mwanawasa declared that PE should be taught in all schools. The subject was introduced to the primary school examination as part of Creative and Technology Studies (CTS) and most recently as Expressive Arts (EA). It is now also being examined at junior and senior secondary levels. Teacher education institutions have been steadfast in training students in PE. Despite this, the teaching of the subject still leaves much to be desired. It appears that the past as well as the present are vehemently holding the subject down.