IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF THE PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED PERSONS THROUGH SPORTS PARTICIPATION

Isaiah Omolola (PhD) & Yahaya Abdulateef Kutashi (PhD)

Abstract

For the last couple of decades UNESCO has aimed to achieve to a far extent the implementation of the guiding principle of inclusion at all levels in education systems worldwide. The idea that countries ‘should ensure an inclusive education system at all levels’ is also a central objective of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This paper discussed improving the quality of life of the physically challenged persons through sports participation. Regular participation in sporting activity not only help prevent illness and disease of the physically challenged, but also help them look good, feel good and improve their quality. This paper discussed on the causes of disability, disability in Nigeria, disability sports, sporting activities for the physically challenged, benefits of sports for the physically challenged, challenges keeping the disabled persons out of sports, improving the quality of life of the physically challenged persons through sports participation. It concluded that the physically challenged must be encouraged to participate in various sports because they need to keep fit even more than the able persons in order to achieve high quality of life. It further recommended that sports facilities and equipment should be provided at various levels as this will enable the physically challenged to participate freely in sports.