17/04/2026

The UNESCO Chair on ‘Physical Activity and Health in Educational Settings’ has been established in 2019. It is based at the University of Basel in Switzerland and Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha, South Africa. The collaboration between the two universities began in 2011 and has been in place now for 15 years.
Much has happened during this time: in addition to six doctoral theses, over 30 master’s theses, the production of numerous publications, including age-appropriate teaching materials, the development of accredited SLPs for teachers, and inspiring reciprocal student exchange visits, it was, in particular, the practical fieldwork in schools in marginalized under-resourced areas that defined our work.
 
To give a comprehensive impression of our activities on the ground and to document the development of our fruitful collaboration over the last 15 years, we have produced a video to mark this year's World Physical Activity Day 2026, which was celebrated on April 6. 
 
The video shows that the project work has continuously expanded, and in recent years, through the Siyaphakama Zwide Schools Project, a collaboration with the Kolisi Foundation, United Through Sport and Ubuntu Pathways. It also highlights our commitment to implementing UNESCO’s two pioneering educational programs, ‘Quality Physical Education’ and ‘Fit For Life’, particularly in the challenging settings of underprivileged schools.