The Ministry of Education, Sport and Culture announced on March 17 the start of the “Disfruta, Juega y Aprende” vacation courses in Manta, aimed at supporting the physical and social development of children and adolescents. The initiative is organized through the Vice Ministry of Sport and targets students in district 13D02.
The program seeks to provide safe spaces for participation, recreation, and learning through sports activities. It aims to encourage healthy habits and strengthen values such as respect, discipline, teamwork, and coexistence among young participants.
Courses will include a variety of sports such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, and handball. Other recreational activities are also planned to support both physical fitness and social skills. Specialized instructors from the Vice Ministry of Sport will offer technical guidance throughout these sessions.
Five educational institutions serve as venues for these courses in district 13D02. In Manta, activities take place at Adolfo Jurado González Basic Education School and Maruja Cedeño Basic Education School. In Montecristi, Aníbal San Andrés Educational Unit and Lauro Palacios Basic Education School participate; while in Jaramijó, Walter Palacios Basic Education School hosts the events.
The courses are offered free of charge to about 400 children and adolescents across three cantons. The initiative is also being implemented in other districts within the province—specifically Chone (district 13D07) and Tosagua (district 13D12)—expanding its reach to more communities.
Maximiliano Núñez Tomasselli, Zonal Coordinator 4 for Education, Sport and Culture, said: “Los cursos vacacionales brindan la oportunidad de fortalecer sus habilidades, compartir en espacios seguros y descubrir en el deporte una herramienta para su crecimiento personal. Desde esta cartera de Estado continuamos promoviendo iniciativas que fomenten estilos de vida saludables y contribuyan al desarrollo integral de nuestra niñez y juventud.”
Through this program, the Ministry reaffirms its commitment to promoting sports practice, well-being, and comprehensive development among children and adolescents.
