FIFA launches schools’ football program in Rwanda
The Rwandan government and the International Association Football Federation (FIFA) on Tuesday launched a schools’ football program aimed at developing football in learning institutions in Rwanda.
The launch at IPRC- Kicukiro football pitch in Rwanda’s capital Kigali was attended by FIFA officials, legends, students, teachers as well as local coaches.
The launch is one of the side events of the 73rd FIFA congress due in Rwanda on Thursday during which FIFA President Gianni Infantino is expected to seek re-election.
The “Football for Schools” FIFA’s initiative is part of a worldwide program to be implemented in partnership with host governments and UNESCO with the target to reach 700 million children across the globe.
In Rwanda, the program targets over 4,000 learning institutions in the country in the next four years, according to the Rwandan Ministry of Sports.
With investment worth $100 million, the program will be implemented through a partnership between Rwandan ministries of Sports and Education as well as the local football governing body (FERWAFA).
“The Football for School Program comes as a contributor to Rwanda’s vision of being a sports hub and there is no better way than starting with young kids,” Rwandan Minister of Sports, Aurore Mimosa Munyangaju said during the launch event.
According to the ministry, schools provide an effective and efficient avenue in which to engage young people in sport, especially for countries without effective club structures.
The program seeks to ensure access to football to all learners, without discrimination.
“We are proud to launch this milestone. This program fits in the government's will to promote inclusiveness in sports,” said Munyangaju.
Under the program, FIFA will provide sporting equipment, including 20,000 footballs to schools since it is a challenge in many schools, said FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samoura.
“Football for Schools program is designed to teach children important life lessons through football,” she said.
Education officials believe the Football for Schools Program could enable schools to address several social issues, while providing an attractive means to motivate teachers, engage and educate learners.
