At Sserinya Primary School in rural Uganda, learning takes many forms and sometimes, it looks a lot like play. On a bright afternoon, the schoolyard hums with laughter and focus. Under the shade of mango trees, groups of children gather in circles, each absorbed in a different game that combines fun with valuable learning.
Learning Through Play
In one corner, students cluster around a Scrabble board, testing out new words and proudly celebrating when they spell something correctly. The game turns vocabulary and spelling into a joyful challenge, strengthening language and confidence through friendly competition.
Nearby, a stack of Jenga blocks wobbles precariously as children take turns pulling out pieces. When the tower collapses, there’s laughter, and then a quick rebuilding, a simple yet powerful lesson in resilience, balance, and teamwork.
A short distance away, a group of children are playing Jacks, the rhythm of the ball and the quick tap of hands keeping time with their counting. It’s playful and lively, but also helps to sharpen coordination, focus, and numeracy.
Under another tree, the steady rhythm of Double Dutch skipping ropes fills the air. The children jump in time to their own chants, practising balance, timing, and cooperation as they move together.
Recently, Sserinya received a new and exciting addition chess boards. Though the sets are new to the students, the fascination was immediate. Children are learning the rules, discovering strategy, and beginning to understand how foresight and patience shape success.
The school’s small collection of board games, including Sorry!, Tile Rummy, Connect Four, and Snakes & Ladders, also brings daily excitement.
The Evidence Behind Play
What’s happening at Sserinya reflects a growing body of research on the benefits of play-based learning.
- A 2023 Makerere University study found that structured play increased literacy and numeracy outcomes among Ugandan primary students, particularly in rural schools.
- Research published in the International Journal of Education and Development showed that non-digital games help improve memory, concentration, and cooperation.
- UNESCO’s global review on early education concluded that learning through play nurtures creativity, resilience, and communication skills, all of which support lifelong learning.
A Joyful Way Forward
At Sserinya Primary School, the link between play and learning is visible every day. With a few simple resources such as a chessboard, a skipping rope, a box of tiles, and some chalk, children are building not only academic skills but also confidence, focus, and friendship.
For Business for Better Society, these moments highlight the transformative power of creativity in education. Each game, each shared laugh, and each moment of discovery contributes to a greater goal: nurturing curious, capable, and compassionate learners.
Because sometimes, the most meaningful lessons don’t come from textbooks… they come from play.
A special thank you to our community of donors who have provided the funding to deliver this array of games to the school.
