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Tengrinews.kz — Kazakhstan is planning to include swimming lessons in the national physical education curriculum, Qazaq Aquatics Secretary General Dmitriy Balandin announced.
During a government meeting, Balandin cited World Health Organization (WHO) data showing that more than 236,000 people drowned globally in 2024, including 82,000 children aged 1 to 14.
“These figures highlight the importance of teaching basic swimming skills and water safety. Together with the Ministry of Education, we are developing a program that will integrate swimming lessons into physical education classes in schools,” Balandin said.
According to him, the pilot phase of the program will begin in 2026 in Almaty and Astana before expanding across the country.
Balandin noted that the initiative follows the example of countries such as the United States, Australia, and Hungary — recognized leaders in swimming — where swimming has long been a compulsory part of the school system.
He emphasized that the program aims to teach children safe behavior in water from an early age while promoting interest in sports as an essential element of a healthy lifestyle.
