The Ministry of Education has partnered with FIFA to promote football in schools across India. Their joint initiative aims to distribute 11 lakh footballs to more than 1.5 lakh schools, making the sport accessible to students nationwide. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan recently distributed 6,848 footballs to schools in Odisha as part of the Footballs for Schools (F4S) program.
The F4S program, launched in December, has expanded its reach to various states, including Odisha, Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Daman and Diu. The initiative seeks to integrate football-related activities into the education system, emphasizing inclusivity regardless of gender.
A spokesperson from the Ministry highlighted the importance of fostering partnerships to promote sports and instil values like teamwork and discipline. They mentioned that the program is not just about introducing football to students but also about promoting holistic development through physical activity.
In addition to distributing footballs, the Ministry has conducted master training programs for around 300 physical education teachers and trainees across India. These trainers will play a crucial role in further capacity building at the state level, ensuring sustainable implementation of the program.
The spokesperson emphasized that F4S aims to empower millions of children globally through football. They expressed their vision of creating excitement for the sport and establishing a lasting sports culture in schools. Through initiatives like F4S, the Ministry and FIFA aim to promote values of teamwork, discipline, and fitness among students, contributing to their overall development.