Ivorian school sports shone this weekend in Bouaké. At the official launch of the 2025-2026 School Games , the Minister of Sports, Silas Adjé Metch , paid a vibrant tribute to the Ivorian Office of School and University Sports (OISSU) for its crucial role in training the next generation of national athletes.

A breeding ground for tomorrow's champions

Although on a mission abroad, the minister had his message conveyed by Inspector General Touré Nimbo . The latter emphasized that these competitions are not mere tournaments, but a true "school of life" and a foundation for civic education.

"Sport at school is much more than a physical activity; it is a nursery where the future worthy representatives of the nation are prepared." — Message from Minister Silas Metch.

Emphasis was also placed on the efficient management of the OISSU under the leadership of its new director, Nomel Méless , who was praised for having been able to organize this large-scale event shortly after taking office.

Competition highlights

For three days (from Friday to Sunday), the old stadium in Bouaké resonated with the performances of nearly 700 young athletes from all over Côte d'Ivoire. The disciplines represented included:

1. Team sports: Football, Handball, Volleyball, Basketball (3x3 and 5x5).
2. Local sports: Maracana (Small posts).
3. Individual performance: Athletics.

Prestigious partners and sponsorships

The success of this edition also relies on top-tier institutional and private support. The ministry particularly commended the commitment of MTN , a long-standing partner, for its logistical support and its contribution to raising the profile of school sports.

The event was held under high authority:

1. High patronage: Robert Beugré Mambé (Prime Minister).
2. Chair: Amadou Koné (Minister of Transport and Mayor of Bouaké).
3. Co-sponsorship: Silas Metch (Sports) and Koffi N'Guessan (National Education).

In closing, the authorities urged young athletes to cultivate fair play and exemplary conduct, reminding them that true champions are forged through discipline and respect for the rules.