04 May 2023

UNESCO Chair extended by UNESCO for the years 2023 - 2027

The application by the University of Basel to extend the agreement between UNESCO and the University of Basel on the UNESCO Chair on 'Physical Activity and Health in Educational Settings', is extended and remains valid until 30 June 2027

Under the leadership of Prof Uwe Pühse (Chair Holder) and Prof Cheryl Walter (Co-Chair Holder) the research results achieved from the period 2019 - 2022 were reviewed and evaluated by UNESCO and found to be valuable of further support. The application by the University of Basel to extend the agreement between UNESCO, Paris, and the University of Basel on the UNESCO Chair on ‘Physical Activity and Health in Educational Settings’, established in March 2019, is extended and remains valid until 30 June 2027.

The UNESCO Chair team is envisaging for the future networking of international institutions such as the WHO and the OECD, but also of other UNESCO Chairs and networks in similar subject areas, in order to further promote ideals, vision and missions in the field of Education and Physical Education in the international North-South context and the two Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3 ‘Ensure healthy lives for all people of all ages and promote their well-being.’ and 4 ‘Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.’

In line with the goals of UNESCO to promote internationals cooperation in Education and Science as well as knowledge sharing, the purpose of the Chair shall be to promote an integrated system of research, training, information and documentation on 'Physical Activity and Health in Educational Settings'. It will facilitate collaboration between international researchers and teaching staff from the University and other institutions in Switzerland, in Europe, in Africa and in other regions of the world. The visions of the Chair for the future are:

1. Continue and strengthen the link with UNESCO and WHO policy. Close cooperation with UNESCO (especially on " QPE ", " Fit for Life " and " Ready to learn and thrive ") and existing UNESCO Chairs on relevant programmes and activities.
2. Support the improvement of infrastructure for Physical Activity, Physical Education and Health and Hygiene, especially in neglected settings ( KaziPlay ).
3. Campaign for the recognition of Physical Education as an essential component of the school curriculum and for the reintroduction of Physical Education as a stand-alone subject in the South African school system.
4. Promote the inclusion of KaziBantu – Healthy Schools for Healthy Communities as an interdisciplinary project between the Health Sciences Faculty and the Education Faculty at the Nelson Mandeal University, for the promotion of health and well-being of children and teachers, as well as the implementation and improvement of Quality Physical Education teacher education.