Football for Schools (F4S) is a is a transformative program run by FIFA, in collaboration with UNESCO, which aims to contribute to the education, development and empowerment of children. It seeks to make football more accessible to both boys and girls around the world by
incorporating football activities into the education system, in partnership with relevant authorities and stakeholders.
F4S has been designed to promote targeted life skills and competencies through football and contribute to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and other priorities.
FKF’s Commitment to Positive Impact
Through the F4S program, Football Kenya Federation (FKF) aims to positively impact as many school-going children as possible. Recognizing that many football players spend a significant amount of time in school, FKF has made a deliberate effort to target them at an early age through this program. The combination of football training and life skills education aims to develop well-rounded citizens for the country.
How has F4S impacted schools?
Enhancing Training Methods with Technology
The free F4S mobile application has significantly enhanced the training methods used by coach educators (teachers) and youth coaches. This app provides access to a variety of training drills that inspire coaches’ programs. These drills are designed to impart both football knowledge and life skills to children, ensuring they develop their talent effectively.
The mobile app is available on the Google Play Store and the Apple Store.
Well-Informed Coaches and Tailor-Made Courses
Additionally, FKF has prioritized training teachers through tailor-made coaching courses. So far, these efforts include offering CAF D courses before FIFA Women’s Football Campaign and Football for Schools events in Embu, Samburu, and Busia.
These courses have impacted at least 60 teachers and 30 community-based coaches, ensuring that children receive training under well-informed handlers.
Supporting Schools with Footballs
Furthermore, through this program there has been provision of footballs to schools to be used for various footballing activities including training sessions, intra-school, and inter-school competitions. Following each WFC and F4S event, participating schools receive support through distribution of footballs.
A total of 63,000 balls are set to be distributed to 2,000 schools across the country. Since this program’s launch in Kenya, rollouts have occurred in Embu and Samburu, with Busia, Kisumu, and Kakamega slated for this year. This will form the first phase of distribution and will impact 500 schools in 5 of Kenya’s 47 counties.
Building the Future of Kenyan Football
The F4S program projects that training numerous learners with access to footballs and guidance from highly qualified coaches will significantly improve the quality of players in youth categories. This initiative will eventually lay the foundation for formidable senior teams.
Upcoming Event
The next FIFA Football for Schools and Women’s Football Campaign event is set to take place in Busia County on August 10, 2024.
Also Read: FIFA Women’s Football Campaign and Football For Schools Event Makes It to Maralal, Samburu