AKIPRESS.COM - UNICEF Kazakhstan became the official non-profit partner of the 5th World Nomad Games, the UNICEF reported.

UNICEF Kazakhstan and the Directorate for the Preparation and Hosting of the 5th World Nomad Games signed a memorandum of understanding to promote inclusiveness and protect children's rights at one of this year's most significant sporting events.

Nail Nurov, Head of the Directorate, and Dr. Rashed Mustafa Sarwar, UNICEF Representative in Kazakhstan, attended the ceremony. In his speech, Mr. Nurov emphasized that UNICEF cooperation will help to make these games not only spectacular but also safe for children by protecting their rights and endsuring participation in meaningful activities.

“Traditional national games have huge educational potential [because] they have everything for successful child development. They help expand children's understanding of their native culture and pass on social experiences from generation to generation. We are very glad to have UNICEF, the United Nations Children's Fund, as our partner. This gives the 5th Games special status and prioritizes our people’s family values."

The head of the Directorate also told about the benefits for children of preschool and school age. Thus, entrance for children up to six years old is free of charge. And children from 6 to 18 years old can visit the Nomad Games with a 50% discount. For example, the cost of a ticket to the competitions in Tenge ilu and Qusbegilik is 500 tenge. In this case, for schoolchildren the ticket will cost 250 tenge.

Sports and physical activities are important for every child. They contribute to children’s leadership skills and social development while improving children's health and well-being. While awards provide recognition and incentive, simply participating in sports competitions improves children and adolescents’ mental health.

UNICEF is pleased to support the World Nomad Games in promoting an inclusive and supportive environment for all children.

"The right to play is enshrined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child. This year, Kazakhstan celebrates 30 years since ratifying the Convention, and we are very pleased that the World Nomad Games, one of the largest international sporting events [in Kazakhstan], has prioritized this right. Our partnership will target parents and caretakers to encourage meaningful play with children," said Dr. Rashed Mustafa Sarwar.

The memorandum includes a wide range of initiatives aimed at raising child rights awareness, ensuring inclusiveness, and providing technical support to organize recreational activities. In particular, UNICEF will actively train volunteers and organize educational activities and interactive workshops for children and their parents at the Ethno-Aul. UNICEF will also participate in the scientific programme by sharing the findings of national studies on healthy and balanced nutrition for children and recommended international standards.

The World Nomad Games will be held in Astana from September 8–13, 2024 and will feature about 2,500 participants from 89 countries in 21 competitive sports. This grand event will not only be a cultural and sporting celebration but also a platform to promote key messages on children's rights and inclusion.