The 28th edition of the Penama Inter-Secondary School Sports (PISSA) games has kicked off at Gambule Junior Secondary School in Maewo, drawing nearly 1,000 students competing across seven sports and cultural activities that highlight local traditions.

This year marks the return of Gambule School as host since it first hosted the games in 2015. VBTC Sports correspondent Gibson Tari, reporting from Maewo, noted increased participation from schools across the province as more zones are now included in the competition.

The games officially began on Monday with a parade led by the VMF brass band in Luganville, accompanied by students from all participating school zones. Despite some schools from Pentecost being unable to attend due to transportation challenges, preliminary competitions in volleyball and pétanque were held before the opening ceremony.

One of the highlights of the week-long event is the first-ever speech competition, as well as group dances performed by participating schools during the evening showcase.

The PISSA games are among the largest inter-school sporting events in Penama, featuring six sports: volleyball, basketball, beach volleyball, football, netball, and track events, though high jump is excluded this year.

Gibson Tari explained that while the school is well-prepared to host, distance between the competition village and venues remains a logistical challenge. Early medal tallies show Nessa leading, followed by Banganvanua, Bwatranmel, Tokatara, and Roronda, with results to be finalized as the games progress.

The week-long PISSA games started on Monday, October 18, and will conclude on October 22, serving as key preparation for Team Penama ahead of the National School Games next year in Ambae.