Hota-Muminović Implements Austerity Measures on Children: No Money for Swimming School at Otoka Pool

(Patria) - After more than fifteen years of continuous implementation, the Systematic Swimming School program for fourth-grade students of elementary schools in Sarajevo Canton will not be realized this school year.

As stated in the official letter sent by the director of JP „Olimpijski bazen Otoka“ Avdija Hasanović to the schools, the reason is that no agreement on financing this significant program has been signed with the Ministry of Education and Science of KS.

„For decades, the swimming school has been an integral part of extracurricular activities that have contributed to the proper growth and development of children, learning one of the most important life skills, as well as preserving health and psychophysical fitness. This turn of events represents a significant loss, both for the students and for the wider community that recognized the value of this program“, the notice states.

The KS Government introduced austerity measures starting August 4th, and they have clearly begun with the youngest and education. In addition to the swimming school not being held, parents have been informed at schools that the nature school project is also no longer available.

The responsible minister, Naida Hota-Muminović (NIP), has clearly introduced cuts due to a lack of funds, but the question arises whether these savings could have bypassed children.

The management of „Olimpijski bazen Otoka“ emphasizes that it is aware of the importance of swimming for children's safety and asks schools and the public for understanding and potential assistance in finding alternative solutions or support models.

„Any idea or suggestion would be extremely valuable in our efforts to enable our students to return to this valuable program as soon as possible“, Hasanović stated.

The systematic swimming school program included all fourth-grade students of elementary schools in Sarajevo Canton, and experts consider it one of the most important projects for children's health.

In addition to enabling them to acquire swimming skills, the program also contributed to physical development, water safety, and the formation of healthy life habits.