A two-day capacity-building master training program was organized by FIFA as a part of F4S in Sambalpur, Odisha on October 2, 2023. 95 Physical Education teachers/trainees from various States/UTs, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS), and AIFF participated in the program. The primary goal of this training was to equip these e-teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge to promote football as an integral part of physical education.
What is Football for Schools (F4S) ?
Football for Schools (F4S) is an ambitious program run by the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA). The Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education is supported by All India Football Federation (AIFF) and Sports Authority of India (SAI) for the implementation of this program in the country. In India, the program is being implemented by the Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education in collaboration with All India Football Federation (AIFF) and Sports Authority of India (SAI).
When was F4S launched?
F4S was launched when the Ministry of Education, AIFF and FIFA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 30 October 2022. For this purpose, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya was entrusted with the responsibility of nodal organization by the Ministry. The program involves empowering government schools across the country with 11.15 lakh footballs and capacity building of students, teachers and coaches.
Goal of F4S Program
F4S aims to contribute to the education, development and empowerment of approximately 700 million children. Its aim is to make football more accessible to both boys and girls around the world by incorporating football-related activities into the education system by partnering with relevant authorities and stakeholders.
Future Training Programs: Pune and Bengaluru
FIFA has planned two more Master Training Programs in Pune and Bengaluru on 5 and 6 October 2023. With around 200 participants (100 at each location), these teachers/trainees will play a vital role as master trainers in the state.