Female students' participation in sports and physical activities in secondary schools across Africa, A systematic review of existing Literature.

Abstract

Abstract

Participation in Physical Activity and sports offers numerous benefits to the participants, however the participation of females in sports and physical activities has always remained low despite the numerous benefits. The purpose of this paper is to review literature on the Female Students’ Participation in Sports And Physical Activities in Secondary Schools Across Africa, most especially the importance of participation in sports to females, the factors that influence female participation in sports and physical activities and the ways in which female students’ participation in sports and Physical activities can be promoted. The information was acquired through reviewing and comparing literature of already existing studies from across Africa. The review confirmed that Physical activity is important in a number of ways including: health benefits, academic benefits, economic and social benefits. The most important factors observed to influence the participation of female students in sports include Socio-cultural, personal factors and socio-economic factors. The review established various ways in which girls’ participation in physical Exercise and sports activities can be promoted and they range from government interventions to roles played by the school. Generally social cultural factors among others are the key factors which mostly affect female students’ participation in physical and sports activities. The findings of this study review can therefore be used by the government and schools to change and enhance policies regarding Physical activity, PE and sports in schools to favor both genders.

Key words: Gender, Physical Activity, Physical exercise, Sports.