Finland-based Liike Sports Foundation is—through Malawi National Council of Sports (MNCS), with support from UEFA Foundation for Children and other partners—set to support a sports and football development project.
The project, which is targeting Goliati primary and secondary schools in Malawi, is aimed at improving education outcomes, health awareness and youth empowerment through physical education.
The project, titled ‘Goliati Sports and Football Development Project’, will be implemented by Liike– Sports & Development, an organisation with more than 25 years’ experience in sports and education programming across sub- Saharan Africa.
Speaking at Goliati Primary School ground Thursday, the foundation’s director Ali Koivu said the project would transform sports in the Area.
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“The overall goal of the project is to use football and physical education as tools for improving health, education outcomes, gender equality and youth empowerment within the school and surrounding community,” Koivu said.
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The initiative will directly benefit about 2,500 learners from both primary and secondary schools, as well as teachers, parents and community members in Goliati.
It responds to challenges faced by Malawian schools, notably overcrowded classrooms, limited sports facilities, teacher shortages and high dropout rates.
Koivu further said the project would establish inclusive girls’ teams and sports clubs.
“Parents and local leaders are expected to be actively involved through school sports activities while peer-led life skills and leadership workshops will be introduced for learners,” he said.
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Meanwhile, MNCS acting Chief Executive Officer Ivy Chinangwa has hailed the foundation for the project.
“Local coordination will be carried out in collaboration with Malawian education authorities, school leadership and community-based organisations, with technical input from the Ministry of Education,” she said.
Goliati Primary School Deputy Head teacher Austin Mongola said the project was a game-changer.
Each participating school will form a sports committee comprising teachers, parents and student representatives to support management and the sustainability of activities.
The project will run for six months.
